Congested holding facilities are neither humane nor safe. It is a harsh reality that the government cannot prioritize everything at once with limited resources. As a result, compromises are made, including the welfare of many Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) in the region.
According to recent data presented by the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Region 8, jail congestion has reached alarming levels. In the Borongan City District Jail, the congestion rate has soared to 453 percent.
Capacity
This facility, designed to hold 15 PDLs in its 71-square-meter cell area, is currently accommodating 83 PDLs. This results in less than one square meter of space per individual.
Similarly, Isabel District Jail, with a cell area of 28 square meters and an ideal capacity of 6 individuals, is housing 21 PDLs. These conditions fall far short of the prison manual's standard of 4.7 square meters per detainee.
Food Ration
In addition to space constraints, BJMP personnel are struggling to provide for the inmates with the limited resources available. The current food allowance stands at P70 per inmate per day, which must be stretched to cover all meals.
Despite numerous decongestion projects implemented by the BJMP to improve the welfare of PDLs, these efforts have proven insufficient.
“In terms of the living condition, it is really a big question for us how we can say that the living conditions of our PDLs are humane. Actually, that is the most difficult part for us as jail officers," said BJMP Regional Director JSSupt. Bernardo Sanchez in an interview with Opinyon 8.
The BJMP regional director added, “we know that our country is really lacking in funds, and the BJMP is not among the priorities because, of course, the community is more important. But we are trying our very best to lobby for funds intended for the facilities.”
New Facilities
However, there is hope on the horizon.
Sanchez expressed optimism that the new detention facility in Baybay City, set to open in October this year, will significantly alleviate the current congestion problem in the region. "Once we occupy the new facility, of course, the availability of cell space will increase, which will reduce our congestion rate.
“We might even achieve a zero percent congestion rate because it will be spacious," Sanchez said.
The new facility is expected to hold up to 500 PDLs, offering a much-needed reprieve from the dire conditions currently faced.
While the opening of the new facility is a positive development, it underscores the need for continued efforts and resources to ensure the humane treatment and welfare of all PDLs.
Photo Courtesy: SunStar Philippines
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