Duterte vows to improve Philippines' prison infrastructure

Manila: President Rodrigo Duterte recently assured the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) that his government would continue supporting the bureau’s initiatives, particularly in building more infrastructure to address jail overcrowding.

“Always keep in mind that this administration will continue to pursue measures that will empower you in addressing the perennial problem that you face, particularly jail congestion,” the President said in an address during the 28th anniversary of the BJMP at the AFP Theater, Camp Aguinaldo.

He announced during the event that the government had allotted money for the construction of 60 new jail facilities to reduce jail congestion. Prisoners, he said, are still human beings who deserve habitable prisons.

“They are human beings and we are supposed to give them habitable prisons," Duterte said.

He also commended the BJMP for its crucial role in the administration’s campaign against illegal drugs by working with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

As part of its efforts to ensure the integrity and professionalism of prison personnel, the BJMP conducted more than 13,000 surprise drug testings, which led to the dismissal of drug users within the organisation.

“May you continue to embody your institution’s vital role of contributing to the transformation and reformation of society. It is my hope that this milestone will further inspire you to harness your professional skills and expertise to promote the common good,” he noted.

“Together, let us continue to embody solidarity as we build a stronger and safer society for the benefit of the future generation.”

Also present during the event were Department and Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen Benjamin Madrigal Jr, and BJMP Chief Allan Iral.