The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) commended the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) for its unwavering commitment to enhancing the skills and tactical preparedness of its personnel through martial arts training, as two jail personnel achieved significant victories at an international martial arts competition.

During the Buffalo-Niagara Laban Laro Tournament, Jail Officer 3 (JO3) Jupiter Villegas from BJMP Region II clinched 4 Gold medals and 3 Silver medals, while JO1 Charlie Sinahon from BJMP Region I earned 1 Gold, 2 Silvers, and 1 Bronze in various divisions. Both represented Team Philippines, showcasing not only athletic excellence but also the effectiveness of BJMP’s training programs.

Their victories highlight BJMP’s commitment in developing its personnel’s self-defense and tactical skills which are key to maintaining jail security, ensuring officer safety, and promoting safety and order within jail facilities.

Villegas shared the demanding routines and discipline that shaped their success, from early morning jogs, a strict 8 to 5 duty schedule, to dietary discipline. “The experience in the BJMP inherently enhanced my approach to discipline and competition. It’s all about self-discipline,” he shared. Both officers are now paying it forward as martial arts instructors to recruits.

The martial arts champs also credited DILG Undersecretary. Serafin Barretto, Jr. for launching the No Guns in Jail program during his stint as BJMP Chief. The program is aimed at maintaining order and self-defense capabilities in jail settings without relying on firearms. Under this program, BJMP officers from various jails in the National Capital Region (NCR) were trained to form a pool of dedicated practitioners for self-defense and structured service.

As BJMP addresses the challenges of overcrowding in jails, with a 286% congestion rate across the nation, strengthening tactical and self-defense capabilities is essential to safeguarding both persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) and jail officers.

This move affirms President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for uniformed personnel to uphold discipline, dedication, and service in building a safer and more secure nation.

Original Article At: https://www.dilg.gov.ph/news/DILG-hails-BJMPs-tactical-training-program-lauds-jail-officers-wins-in-international-martial-arts-tournament/NC-2025-1245