DOH to conduct targeted testing of inmates

The Department of Health (DOH) will conduct a targeted testing of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) in facilities where it is needed, a health official said on Thursday.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said they have begun an initial assessment, investigation, and management of confirmed cases inside detention facilities.

The DOH also continues to “proactively” monitor the COVID-19 situation at the Muntinlupa Penal Colony and the Correctional Institute for Women in Mandaluyong, she added.

The Women’s Correctional has reported

On Tuesday, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology said 233 PDLs and personnel from three city jails had tested positive for COVID-19. 

“Sinisigurado po natin na maisasaayos ang prevention measures sa ating iba pang mga bilangguan upang hindi na makapasok ang sakit sa COVID sa ating mga pasilidad,” Vergeire said.

She also said that the DOH is working with the International Committee of the Red Cross to establish isolation facilities inside the New Bilibid Prison, as well as auxiliary tents for probable and suspected cases.

“Ating patuloy na tinututukan at binabantayan ang iba pang closed settings katulad ng mga orphanages at homes for the aged na mas delikado kung makakapasok ang COVID-19,” Vergeire said. —LDF, GMA News