Establishment of Regional Prisons, Conversion of Penal Institutions

Presidential Decree No. 28 adopts House Bill No. 4385 as the law of the land.
The adopted measure is entitled “AN ACT ESTABLISHING SEVEN REGIONAL PRISONS AND CONVERTING EXISTING NATIONAL PENAL INSTITUTIONS INTO REGULAR PRISONS AND PENAL FARMS, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.”

Presidential Decree No. 28 addresses the priority need for peace and order measures pending before Congress before Proclamation No. 1081.
The decree targets problems arising from overcrowded national prisons and an integrated system of confinement of various types of felons.
The reform is intended to reduce escapes among national prisoners.
The reform is intended to promote rehabilitation by bringing prisoners and their families and friends closer to each other.
The decree states it is implemented to effect “desired changes and reforms in the social, economic and political structures of our society.”

Presidential Decree No. 28 provides that immediately, there shall be established one regional prison in lieu of the number and location of penal establishments created under the adopted measure.
The decree mandates regional prisons in Leyte, Pangasinan, and Northeastern Mindanao.
The provincial/area selection functions as the immediate operating rule on regional prison location notwithstanding the originally contemplated number and location under House Bill No. 4385.

Presidential Decree No. 28 expressly allows the President to make amendments, changes and modifications.
Such amendments, changes and modifications take effect after announcement by the President.
Amendments, changes and modifications can also take effect after announcement by the President’s duly designated representative.