MANILA — Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) chief Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. said retired Army general Jovito S. Palparan remains detained at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City.

Catapang issued the clarification following a manifestation filed by private complainants Erlinda Cadapan and Concepcion Empeño.

In a submission to the Supreme Court on June 9, Cadapan and Empeño raised concerns over information suggesting that Palparan may no longer be held at the NBP.

Catapang, however, categorically denied the claim, saying Palparan continues to serve his sentence inside the national penitentiary.

He said any transfer of inmates, particularly high-profile prisoners, must follow strict protocols and proper documentation, none of which has been recorded in Palparan’s case.

Catapang assured the public that the BuCor maintains transparency and accountability in managing inmate custody.

“Any future developments or changes in his detention status will be communicated through official channels to maintain clarity and public trust,” he added.

Palparan was convicted by a Bulacan court in 2018 for kidnapping and serious illegal detention in connection with the disappearance of University of the Philippines students Sherlyn Cadapan and Karen Empeño.