Tacloban city: A modern jail facility worth PHP150 million will soon rise in this city to address the severe congestion at the Tacloban City Jail Male Dorm. The plan was presented during the Leyte Provincial Peace and Order Council meeting on Thursday, presided over by Governor Carlos Jericho Petilla.
According to Philippines News Agency, Jail Provincial Administrator Supt. Jim Buranday highlighted the alarming congestion rate of the dormitory, currently the most overcrowded facility under the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology in Eastern Visayas (BJMP-8). Based on BJMP-8 data, the male dormitory currently houses 527 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), 230 percent above its ideal capacity of 150 inmates.
To address the problem, the BJMP has secured PHP150 million for the construction of a new and more spacious facility, designed to accommodate up to 2,000 inmates, on a lot donated by the Tacloban City government in Barangay 101, New Kawayan. "If this facility is completed, it will decongest and address the current condition of Tacloban City Jail," Buranday said.
The new jail complex is expected to significantly improve detention conditions, ease overcrowding, and enhance the delivery of basic services and rehabilitation programs for inmates. While awaiting the completion of the facility, the BJMP has implemented interim measures to help reduce congestion. These include assigning paralegal officers tasked with closely monitoring court cases, particularly those involving inmates who have been detained for extended periods, and assisting their families with legal follow-ups.
Buranday noted that court hearings are often scheduled one to three months apart, resulting in cases taking three to five years before promulgation. Another factor contributing to congestion is the steady influx of new detainees, particularly those facing drug-related charges. Of the 527 PDLs currently detained at the male dormitory, 348 are facing or serving sentences for violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.
Other BJMP facilities in Leyte are also experiencing congestion, including the Ormoc City Jail Male Dorm, Carigara District Jail, Burauen District Jail, Palompon Municipal Jail, Tacloban City Jail Female Dorm, and Isabel District Jail. Meanwhile, some facilities remain below capacity, such as the Ormoc City Jail Female Dorm, Baybay City Jail, Palo Municipal Jail, and Alangalang Municipal Jail.
Authorities expressed hope that once completed, the new Tacloban City jail facility will significantly ease overcrowding not only in the city but also help stabilize jail conditions across nearby districts. The BJMP has not yet started the construction since efforts are focused on resolving road right-of-way issues.
