Dasmari±as City: The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), in collaboration with the Dasmari±as City government, is set to build a state-of-the-art prison facility aimed at drastically reducing the city’s current jail congestion rate from an overwhelming 3,333 percent to a more manageable 46 percent.

According to Philippines News Agency, BJMP Chief Jail Director Ruel Rivera highlighted the new jail facility as a significant move towards alleviating overcrowding and ensuring humane conditions for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs). In his statement, Rivera emphasized the adverse effects of overcrowded cells on the physical and emotional well-being of inmates, stating that the new facility is a step towards addressing these issues.

Rivera led the groundbreaking ceremony for the new facility, which is scheduled for completion by February 2026. The construction will take place on a 5,464-square-meter parcel of land in Barangay Langkaan 2, as stipulated in the usufruct agreement signed on November 12, 2021, between BJMP and Dasmari±as City. This agreement is set to last for 25 years, with an option for renewal upon mutual consent.

Rivera expressed optimism that the new project will significantly ease the congestion, reducing the rate in the male dormitory to 31 percent and in the female hall to 15 percent. Presently, the Dasmari±as City Jail, located in Barangay Burol 2, is one of the most overcrowded facilities under BJMP’s management, with the male dormitory housing 1,270 PDLs at a congestion rate of 1,133 percent, and the female hall accommodating 248 PDLs at a congestion rate of 2,200 percent.

Additionally, the new facility will include an infirmary, spaces for training and livelihood programs, Alternative Learning System (ALS) and worship areas, and a designated visitation area, aiming to improve the quality of life for its inhabitants.