KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — Former police officer Barney P. Condes, the newly appointed Provincial Warden of the South Cotabato Rehabilitation Center (SCRDC), officially assumed his post today, will implement changes to enhance the jail facility and the rehabilitation of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs).
Condes, who has a strong commitment to security, reform, and community development, laid out his bold plans to reshape the facility into a model of efficiency and reform.
Speaking before the men and women of the provincial jail, he immediately emphasized the importance of a complete overhaul of the jail’s environment.
“We will not just clean up this facility,we will transform it. A clean, orderly, and disciplined facility will be our starting point,” Condes declared.
He stressed the urgent need to address illegal activities, particularly the rampant issue of illegal drugs within the facility.
“We cannot allow illegal drugs or any illicit activities to continue unchecked. I will ensure that strict monitoring is in place, and we will rid this facility of criminal behavior,” he asserted, vowing a no-tolerance approach to any wrongdoing.
In a powerful statement on rehabilitation, Condes outlined his plans to implement a series of groundbreaking projects aimed at improving the lives of PDLs.
These include the introduction of a hydroponics system to grow fresh vegetables, the establishment of inland fish farming, and a partnership with TESDA to offer accredited programs such as grafting fruit-bearing trees.
“These programs are not just about training PDLs—they are about giving them the tools to rebuild their lives and prepare for a future beyond prison,” Condes emphasized.
The projects will not only benefit the inmates but will also provide valuable resources and skills to their families and communities.
“This is about empowering our inmates and their families. It is about breaking the cycle of crime and creating a path toward a productive and honorable life,” he explained.
Condes made it clear that his leadership will be rooted in the highest standards of discipline and integrity. He promised to uphold the strictest adherence to prison protocols and to ensure that no violations of any kind will occur under his watch.
“I will ensure that every procedure is followed meticulously, and every rule is enforced. There will be no exceptions,” he stated firmly.
In line with the provincial government’s commitment to transparency, honesty, and service, Condes also pledged to serve with the utmost integrity.
“I believe that leadership is built on honesty. I will be accountable to the people, and I will always serve the community with dedication and respect for the law,” he said.
With a vision that combines strict discipline, reform, and community development, Condes is determined to lead the South Cotabato Provincial Jail to new heights. His leadership is poised to create a safer, more productive environment, not just for the PDLs, but for the broader community as well.
“This is more than just prison management—this is about transformation, justice, and a future where everyone has the opportunity to change,” Condes concluded with resolve.
Under his stewardship, South Cotabato’s jail facility is set to undergo a powerful and meaningful transformation that promises to redefine the role of correctional institutions in rehabilitating individuals and strengthening communities.
