The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) said on Wednesday it intercepted an attempt to smuggle suspected illegal drugs into the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City after a female visitor was caught concealing the contraband inside her body on Tuesday.
BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. identified the suspect as Rovelyn Fabillar, a registered visitor of a person deprived of liberty (PDL) named Lester Martin Ramos.
Fabillar was apprehended after routine security inspections at the Inmate Visiting Services Unit (IVSU) -Maximum Security Compound revealed irregularities in her abdomen.
Authorities discovered suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) wrapped in a condom and concealed inside a transparent plastic. The contraband was hidden in her private part in an attempt to evade detection.
Catapang emphasized that this incident highlights the importance of enhanced security measures to prevent the entry of illegal substances into correctional facilities.
Last year, the BuCor acquired two advanced full-body scanners capable of detecting items hidden under clothing or ingested by visitors. These scanners streamline the security process by reducing the need for invasive strip searches and manual cavity checks.
Catapang said this interception underscores BuCor’s commitment to maintaining the safety and integrity of prison operations. He credited advanced technology in helping deter smuggling attempts and preserving order within the facility.
Fabillar was turned over to the Muntinlupa City Police, while the confiscated drugs were handed over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for proper disposition.