Jail congestion rate down to 273% —BJMP

The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) on Wednesday reported that jail congestion across the country has decreased to 273% amid ongoing reforms and facility improvements.

At a Senate hearing, BJMP deputy chief for administration Jail Chief Superintendent Dennis Rocamora said, “The good news is that our average congestion rate is decreasing to 273% na lang.”

“But that is an average. Pero mayroon talagang mga jail facilities na over 1,000% plus pa rin ang congestion rate katulad noong sa Consolacion, Cebu at Muntinlupa because wala po talagang malipatan.”

(But that is an average. But there are actually jail facilities that still have over 1,000% plus congestion rates like in Consolacion, Cebu as well as Muntinlupa because there are no facilities for transfer.)

Measures to decongest facilities include the construction of new jail buildings, expansion of existing facilities, and stronger coordination with the judiciary for the expedited resolution of cases.

There are ongoing legislative proposals that could improve congestion including the integration of provincial and municipal jails, standardizing jail management, and optimizing fund allocation nationwide.

Lawmakers pointed out that more comprehensive solutions are needed including faster case disposition and increased funding for infrastructure and personnel.

Despite challenges, the BJMP reiterated its commitment to improving detention conditions while ensuring the safety, security, and rehabilitation of PDLs. —VAL, GMA News