THE National Youth Commission and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology have agreed to partner in promoting the rights and well-being of young persons deprived of liberty.

BJMP chief Jail Director Ruel Rivera and NYC chairperson Ronald Gian Carlo Cardema have signed a memorandum of agreement for this purpose.

“Sa ugnayang ito ng NYC at BJMP, hindi lamang ‘yung mga youth PDL na mayroong kasong may kinalaman sa terorismo ang ini-aangat natin, kundi ang lahat ng youth PDL sa ilalim ng ating pangangalaga— mga survivor at biktima ng gender violence, mga kabilang sa LGBTQIA+, yaong mga kabataang biktima ng pang-aabuso, mga solo parents. Lahat sila ay sakop ng kooperasyong ito,” Rivera said.

Based on the agreement, the two agencies will work together to build a more inclusive and compassionate environment, fostering the potential of each young person within the justice system.

“Ang pagsasanib-puwersa ng NYC at ng BJMP ay makatutulong nang malaki sa higit pa nilang [youth PDL] pag-unlad kahit nasa loob sila ng kulungan, sapagkat aasahan natin na simula ngayon, magkakaroon na tayo ng mga programang nadisenyo at nakatuon lamang para sa mga kabataan,” Rivera added.

Based on records, there are 37,804 youth PDLs aged 18 to 30 that are currently detained in its facilities, with 23 identified as children in conflict with the law and 159 facing charges related to terrorism.

At present, the BJMP implements general programs for youth PDLs, including the Alternative Learning System, skills training, livelihood, Therapeutic Community Modality Program, art expression, and sports.