The Baguio City Jail–Male Dorm reported a decline in the number of the persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) that are housed in the facility as of September 9 this year compared to its population during the same period last year.
Jail Superintendent April Rose Ayangwa, warden of the Baguio City Jail–Male Dorm, said that the current population of the facility is around 315 PDLs.
She claimed that the decline in the facility’s population is a positive indicator of the success of the ongoing rehabilitation programs and the collective efforts in creating a pathway for the PDLs to re-integrate into society.
The jail warden said that senior citizens account for 4.5 percent of the facility’s population that demonstrates its commitment in ensuring the welfare of older individuals.
Further, the LGBTQIA+ population makes up 9 percent that reinforces its mission of inclusivity and respect for all persons.
On the other hand, PDLs with health conditions represent 30 percent for whom they are being provided with constant medical care and attention.
Ayangwa added that 35 percent of the PDLs are those aged 18-30, 31 percent are those aged 31-41, 21 percent are those aged 42-53, 3 percent are those aged 54-69 and 1.5 percent are those aged 70 and above.
From 2023-2024, the jail officer claimed that there had been zero incidents of escape, riot, noise barrage or violence which speaks volumes of the dedication of the facility’s custodial personnel and the cooperation of the PDLs where they were able to build an environment of peace, trust and mutual respect.
According to her 97 percent or 308 PDLs are now registered voters that highlights the BJMP’s commitment to uphold their rights and ensuring that even those behind bars have a voice in the democratic process.
Ayangwa pointed out that one of the facility’s successful initiatives has been its decongestion efforts through the good conduct time allowance (GCTA) where from April to September this year, there were 23 PDLs that were released which is the second highest mode of release with the support of the stakeholders.
She admitted that the GCTA has provided many individuals the opportunity to re-enter society rehabilitated and ready to start anew. By Dexter A. See
