Incoming DOJ chief eyes drastic changes at BuCor

MANILA, Philippines — Incoming Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II revealed that he plans to make drastic changes at the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) when he takes office.

"I believe that I have the blessing of the president (Rodrigo Duterte). My action in the Bureau of Correction will be very, very drastic. They will not like it but it will be effective. BuCor shall be the first to taste that kind of administration from the secretary of justice," Aguirre said in an ambush interview on Monday.

Aguirre, however, did not give details on his exact plans for the bureau.

The incoming Justice Secretary said that his administration will be different from his predecessor as he will be "very honest and not corrupt."

"Corruption is zero and that is my marching order from the president. Issues will be against corruption and graft. 'Yan ang pagtutuunan natin ng pansin," Aguirre said.

Aguirre said that he is in favor of transferring the National Bilibid Prison from Muntinlupa City to Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija.

The veteran lawyer said that the new administration will look into the possible transfer of the NBP despite the "overpriced" building in Fort Magsaysay.

"Pag-aaralan pa. I believe that it will be one of my recommendation na talagang ilipat para maganda," Aguirre said.

Aguirre and Duterte were batch mates at the San Beda College of Law, where the former graduated as class valedictorian. They are also brothers in the Lex Talionis fraternity.

Potential members of the new Cabinet are scheduled to have a meeting in Davao City with Duterte on Tueday afternoon.