All 120 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) in Naujan District Jail in Oriental Mindoro are now registered with the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth).

Jail Officer 1 Allen Glen Delica, community relations service officer of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), said this milestone is important in promoting the health and well-being of PDLs.

“The program would also standardize the health response of concerned agencies for PDLs, which includes strengthening of the referral system and making sure that they are informed of their benefits,” Delica said.

The initiative aims to address common health issues in jail facilities, such as respiratory infections, skin diseases, sanitation-related conditions, and mental health challenges.

On July 2024, the BJMP and other agencies signed a national policy to strengthen healthcare for PDLs and ensure consistent medical support.

Under this policy, PDLs are guaranteed 24/7 healthcare services and access to PhilHealth eligibility packages.

(with reports from JO3 Joefrie Anglo, IO-BJMP MIMAROPA)