The warden of the Baguio City Jail female dorm said that human safekeeping, especially for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), goes beyond closing doors but it is about recognizing that they are still human beings with rights and dignity even in the face of legal consequences.
Jail Inspector Joan Bacayan, warden of the Baguio City Jail female dorm, said that PDLs must still be provided with their fundamental needs from clean facilities and health care to nourishing meals and religious access with the ultimate goal is establishing a safe, compassionate and violence-free environment.
However, she claimed that the goals of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) goes beyond mere safekeeping as the bureau believes in supporting progress and allowing PDLs to improve and start anew.
The jail warden pointed out that through vocational training, PDLs are being prepared for re-integration to the work force and that education programs provide new knowledge and skills, while counseling helps them maintain emotional and mental wellbeing.
According to them, the said focus on growth is not a soft approach to crime but a calculated investment in public safety as PELs released with knowledge, skills, and other fresh sense of purpose are least likely to reoffend.
“We aim to increase a safer and more inclusive society, rather than simply controlling PDLs. Of course, we face challenges such as overcrowding, limited resources, and deeply ingrained social stigma. However, as jail officers, we remain dedicated to fulfilling our dual roles. We strive to design a system that strikes a balance between security and humanity because we firmly believe that PDLs, despite their transgressions, deserve the opportunity to grow and positively impact society,” Bacayan stressed.
She claimed that this is a call to action not only for the public but also for all of the people as they should learn more about the work of jail officers to dispel misconceptions about incarceration, and engage with them to promote PDLs development initiatives.
Further, through understanding and cooperation, people can build a more secure future for everyone and behind bars are not just PDLs but individuals with potential, thus, people should work together to unlock it. By Dexter A. See
