Manila, April 24 -- The Department of Justice (DOJ) has ordered the creation of a technical working group (TWG) to hasten the creation of a separate penal facility for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) convicted of heinous crimes.

Under Department Order No. 208, series of 2024, issued by Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, the TWG would be led by Undersecretary Deo Marco, and Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Director General Gregorio Catapang Jr.

The DOJ said the creation of the TWG is in line with the implementation of Republic Act No. 11928, also known as the "Separate Facility for Heinous Crimes Act."

"Our prison system and facilities reflect the efficiency of the State in rebuilding lives who have once become astray for certain ...