Aerial view of National Bilibid Prison Reservation area in Muntinlupa City including South Luzon Expressway and landmarks

New Bilibid Prison

New Bilibid Prison Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Guide – Muntinlupa, Metro Manila

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Set within the dynamic city of Muntinlupa, Metro Manila, the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) stands as both the Philippines’ central penitentiary and a landmark of profound historical significance. Since its establishment in 1940 to replace the Old Bilibid Prison in Manila, NBP has borne witness to pivotal chapters in Philippine history—from its use during World War II and the Japanese occupation, to its postwar legacy and ongoing role in penal reform. Today, NBP is not only an operational correctional facility but also a focal point for education, cultural exploration, and heritage preservation, with evolving plans to transform much of its grounds into a major civic and green space (Inquirer; Vigattin Tourism; Express UK).

This guide offers a comprehensive overview for history enthusiasts, cultural travelers, and visitors—detailing NBP’s historical context, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, key attractions, and future redevelopment plans.

Panoramic view of the National Bilibid Prison Reservation area in Muntinlupa City showing the Insular Bilibid Prison Bridge, Jamboree Lake, Grotto and Sunken Garden, monuments and surrounding landmarks

Japanese nurse with malnourished dependent children at New Bilibid Prison 1945

NCRPO health service team conducting COVID-19 rapid diagnostic testing on elderly persons deprived of liberty at NBP Maximum Security Compound

Aerial view of Luzon Island in the Philippines showing diverse landscapes and coastal areas

Historical Background and NBP’s Evolution
Major Landmarks and Attractions
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Booking
Access, Visitor Guidelines, and Accessibility
Nearby Attractions in Muntinlupa and Metro Manila
Redevelopment Plans: From Prison to Central Park
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Travel Tips
References

Historical Background and NBP’s Evolution

Foundation and Early Years (1936–1940)

Constructed under Commonwealth Law No. 67, New Bilibid Prison was inaugurated in 1940 on a 551-hectare reservation in Muntinlupa to address the overcrowding at the Old Bilibid Prison in Manila. Its design and scale reflected a modern approach to incarceration and rehabilitation, coinciding with reforms in the Philippine penal system (Vigattin Tourism; Inquirer).

World War II and Japanese Occupation

During the Japanese occupation (1942–1945), the prison was commandeered as an internment camp for thousands of military and civilian prisoners, including American POWs. Many endured harsh conditions, with some transported on infamous “hell ships.” The liberation of the prison came in February 1945 during the Battle of Manila, after which it housed Japanese war criminals (Traces of War).

Postwar Era and Political Imprisonment

NBP continued as the nation’s primary penitentiary post-WWII, incarcerating not only criminal offenders but also prominent political detainees, such as President Jose Laurel and Jorge Vargas, accused of collaboration during the Japanese regime (Inquirer).

Modern Challenges and Penal Reforms

Originally designed for 6,000 inmates, NBP’s population surged to over 25,000 by 2025, resulting in one of the world’s highest congestion rates (Cebu Daily News). Efforts to address overcrowding include transferring inmates to regional facilities and expanding rehabilitation programs. The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) is actively working towards NBP’s decommissioning and site redevelopment by 2028 (SunStar).

Major Landmarks and Attractions

New Bilibid Prison Museum

The NBP Museum provides an educational journey through Philippine correctional history, featuring artifacts, historical documents, and creative works by inmates. It challenges perceptions about incarceration and highlights rehabilitation efforts (Tourist Places Guide).

Jamboree Lake

Renowned as the smallest natural lake in the Philippines, Jamboree Lake offers a serene environment for visitors, with scenic trails and photography opportunities (Vigattin Tourism).

Director’s Quarters, Administration Building, and Memorials

Director’s Quarters & Administration Building: Built in 1941, showcasing period architecture.
Memorial Hill & Japanese Cannon: Features a WWII-era cannon and the burial site of Maj. Eriberto Misa Sr.
Cemetery of General Yamashita: Final resting place of the Japanese general (Vigattin Tourism).

Recreational and Community Facilities

NBP has evolved into a self-contained community with:

Basketball courts, gymnasium, and talipapa (market)
Chapel and religious centers
Educational facilities, including elementary to college-level programs (Vigattin Tourism)

Family Park

In March 2024, a 5,000-square-meter park was opened for inmates and visitors, featuring a playground and gazebos for family visits. It operates Wednesday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., within a secured perimeter (Asia News Network).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Booking

Hours: Museum and Family Park are open Wednesday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Entry Fees: Admission is free for the museum and park.
Booking: Advance registration is required via the Bureau of Corrections Official Website. Bring valid identification.
Guided Tours: Available by arrangement. Check for updates or restrictions, especially during security or health advisories (Philstar; Abogado).

Access, Visitor Guidelines, and Accessibility

Getting There: NBP is accessible via Alabang-Zapote Road, South Luzon Expressway, and public transit from Metro Manila. Parking is available.
Visitor Conduct: Security screenings are mandatory. Modest attire is required. Photography is permitted in designated areas only—ask staff for guidance.
Accessibility: Some areas accommodate visitors with disabilities; contact the Bureau in advance for special needs (Bureau of Corrections Official Website).

Nearby Attractions in Muntinlupa and Metro Manila

Museo ng Muntinlupa: City museum with exhibits on NBP and local history (Museo ng Muntinlupa).
Filinvest City, Alabang Town Center, Festival Supermall: Destinations for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Zapote Bridge: A historical site from the Philippine-American War.

Metro Manila’s key attractions like Intramuros, Rizal Park, and Ayala Museum are easily accessible by public transit.

Redevelopment Plans: From Prison to Central Park

Vision and Urban Transformation

By 2028, the government plans to relocate the penitentiary and redevelop the 551-hectare site into a mixed-use district with a massive public park inspired by New York’s Central Park (Politiko). Heritage buildings and historical sites will be preserved and integrated into the new urban landscape, offering cultural, recreational, and commercial spaces for the community (GMA News).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for New Bilibid Prison’s museum and park?
A: Wednesday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: Admission is free, but advance booking and registration with valid ID are required.

Q: How do I arrange a guided tour?
A: Guided tours must be booked through the Bureau of Corrections Official Website.

Q: Are there facilities for visitors with disabilities?
A: Some areas are accessible; inquire ahead for accommodations.

Q: What security protocols should I expect?
A: All visitors undergo inspection and must adhere to conduct and photography rules.

Summary and Travel Tips

New Bilibid Prison’s story mirrors the evolution of the Philippine penal system, from its foundation as a modern correctional facility to its role during World War II, and its current transformation into a hub for rehabilitation and heritage tourism. Today’s NBP opens its doors to the public via its museum, park, and guided tours, offering a rare opportunity to engage with history firsthand.

Travelers are encouraged to:

Check official sources for the latest visiting schedules and booking procedures
Respect all security and health protocols
Explore nearby attractions in Muntinlupa and Metro Manila for a comprehensive travel experience

As NBP transitions towards its next chapter, visitors can witness a living history site evolving into a new civic and cultural landmark.

References

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