THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Tuesday apologized to the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) for its mistakes in a May 30 press release to address the issue of suspected tuberculosis (TB) among over 400 persons deprived of liberty at the Pasay City Jail.
It vowed to ensure the accuracy of facts in similar future statements.
“However, upon closer review of the mandates of the country’s penal and jail management institutions, it has been clarified that the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology has direct supervision over the Pasay City Jail, all under the direction and supervision of the Department of the Interior and Local Government,” its statement read.
“On the other hand, the BuCor manages the seven national prisons and penal farms, such as the New Bilibid Prisons in Muntinlupa City, the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong, Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm in Puerto Princesa City, etc. Bucor is under the supervision of the Department of Justice,” CHR said.
“Accordingly, this press statement now correctly urges the Pasay City Jail administration and the BJMP to take cognizance of the matter,” it added.
According to the BJMP, out of 392 suspected cases of TB, 18 have tested positive based on gene testing.
Those individuals have now been isolated and are receiving the necessary medical attention, CHR said.
“This development highlights the unwavering commitment of our penology sector to address and manage health concerns within correctional facilities. In line with this, we express our sincerest apologies to the management and the entire institution of BuCor,” it said.
“We also thank the BuCor for clarifying the error to us. Rest assured that we in CHR, together with all concerned agencies and stakeholders, remain committed to protecting and upholding the rights of PDLs and ensuring their safety and dignified life within correctional and jail facilities,” it added.