Section 2Sec./Art. 2

Declaration of Policy. Pursuant to Article II, Section 5 of the Constitution, which states that "The maintenance of peace and order, the protection of life, liberty, and property, and the promotion of the general welfare are essential for the enjoyment by all the people of the blessings of democracy," and Article II, Section 11 of the Constitution, which states that "The State values the dignity of every human person and guarantees full respect for human rights," the State implements policies and programs to promote the general welfare and the basic rights of every person deprived of liberty (PDL) who are incarcerated in the national penitentiaries.

Furthermore, the State adheres to the principle that different categories of persons deprived of liberty shall be kept in separate institutions or facilities in consideration of their age, sex, criminal record, and requirements for rehabilitation and reformation.