Puerto Princesa: The Philippines will host this year’s ASEAN Regional Correctional Conference (ARCC) to be held in Puerto Princesa, Palawan from February 14 to 17.

According to Philippines News Agency, the event will bring together the heads of all ASEAN prison services to discuss common challenges and share best practices, as stated by the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) in a statement on Thursday. BuCor will be joined by the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in hosting the conference, which will have the theme “Shaping the Future of Corrections Together.”

“The ARCC provides a valuable venue to address the emerging challenges of prison overcrowding and lack of resources faced by participating countries and to learn from one another while discussing efforts and solutions for the enhancement of quality correctional services,” said BuCor Director General Gregorio Catapang Jr. He noted that this is the first time the bureau will host an international conference.

Aside from the Philippines, other ASEAN countries include Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Malaysia, and Timor-Leste. Some 28 international organizations have been invited to take part in this conference, Catapang mentioned. Related government agencies and lawmakers are also invited to grace the conference.