BJMP intensifies efforts to protect PDLs from high heat index

The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) on Friday said it has enhanced its measures to protect persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) from the impact of the high heat index.

In a statement, the BJMP said its chief Jail Director Ruel Rivera ordered all jail facilities to apply strict heat mitigation measures and closely monitor PDLs’ health, particularly in Metro Manila.

High temperatures and overcrowding in Metro Manila jail facilities pose “serious risks,” according to the BJMP.

The enhanced measures include the following:

• Placing jail health personnel on heightened alert with jail nurses on standby 24/7 to respond to medical emergencies
• Procuring essential medicines as early as the fourth quarter of 2024 to ensure a sufficient supply in case of an increase in summer-related illnesses
• Improving ventilation such as installation of exhaust fans and ventilation shafts to improve airflow in congested facilities
• Ensuring access to clean and potable water particularly in areas prone to shortages with the help of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)
• Maintaining proper hygiene and sanitation among PDLs
• Addressing jail congestion

According to the BJMP, the “long-standing issue” of jail congestion worsens the effects of extreme heat.

The BJMP said it is working on infrastructure projects to expand capacity, alleviate overcrowding, and provide safer and more humane living conditions for PDLs.

According to the BJMP, the bureau is currently operating 484 jail facilities across the country with 142 newly constructed facilities.

Rivera said the BJMP is committed to prioritizing the health and safety of PDLs as the agency will maintain the measures to mitigate the impact of extreme heat while pursuing long-term solutions to improve jail conditions. —Joviland Rita/ VAL, GMA Integrated News