Bago city: The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) has reaffirmed its commitment to humane safekeeping and professional jail management in the Negros Island Region (NIR) during the official visit of its chief in Negros Occidental.

According to Philippines News Agency, Chief Inspector Juniven Rey Umadhay, BJMP-NIR spokesperson, stated that BJMP chief Jail Director Ruel Rivera conducted inspections at the Negros Occidental District Jail (NODJ) Male Dormitory and Female Dormitory in Bago City, as well as the Metro Bacolod District Jail Male Annex and Female Dormitory in Bacolod City.

During the visit, Rivera emphasized two key aspects: ensuring that persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) are heard and appreciated, and recognizing the dedication of jail officers. At the NODJ, Rivera, accompanied by BJMP-NIR Director Jail Chief Supt. Brendan Fulgencio, engaged in dialogue with PDLs and held a conference with jail personnel.

Rivera conveyed Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla's commendation to BJMP units nationwide for maintaining zero human rights violation incidents involving PDLs. He highlighted the BJMP's core mandate to safeguard the constitutional rights of PDLs, ensuring equal protection and respect under the law for all.

Rivera also acknowledged the proactive approach of BJMP management, led by Fulgencio and NODJ-MD warden Supt. Crysrel Awe, in addressing PDL concerns. He expressed appreciation for the transparent and rights-based approach in resolving issues while maintaining order and discipline within the facility.

Updates were presented by Rivera on increasing prisoners' subsistence allowance from PHP70 to PHP100 per day, providing medical support expense allocation, and strengthening partnerships with local hospitals for specialized medical needs. Additionally, a separate budget provision for hygiene kits aims to improve sanitation and health conditions among PDLs.

Rivera also discussed improvements in personnel welfare, including increased salaries for uniformed personnel and an additional subsistence allowance of PHP200 per day, with corresponding adjustments in net take-home pay.