The Department of Justice (DOJ) is closely monitoring jail facilities in the Philippines after an inmate of the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) has tested positive for Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).
According to DOJ undersecretary Markk Perete, coordination has been made with the Department of Public Works and Highways for a larger facility inside the NBP in case of emergency.
There are currently 18 COVID-19 positive inmates from the Correctional Institute for Women (CIW) and 40 individuals who were exposed to the virus. They are now isolated in “Site Harry” which has been turned into a quarantine facility with a bed capacity of 300 inside the NBP.
“The DOH has already committed an initial 10,000 test kits for PDLs. The first batch of mass testing will be conducted at the CIW and NBP, where the cases for COVID-19 infection were registered,” DOJ Usec. Markk Perete shared.
He also added that there are more medical personnel in jail facilities. “Coordination with the PNP and AFP is also in place. They are on standby in case BuCor security personnel need augmentation.”
Meanwhile, the agency asks for understanding and cooperation from the Muntinlupa Local Government Unit (LGU) as local officials reacted when CIW inmates were brought to the NBP.
“We like to assure the local government of Muntinlupa and the city residents that all precautions and protocols were complied with (during) the transportation of individuals from CIW. The quarantine facility within the NBP was constructed in accordance with WHO and DOH standards, and its management will comply with stringent health protocols.” DOJ Usec. Perete has ensured.
Report from Kenneth Paciente