Manila, Philippines – The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) – National Capital Region, under the leadership of Regional Director Jail Chief Superintendent Baby Noel Montalvo, is now aiming to make the 38 jail facilities in Metro Manila tech-based.
One example of this is the use of drones, biometrics, and other high-tech equipment.
According to Jail Chief Superintendent Montalvo, through modern technologies, the operations of jail facilities in the NCR will become easier and faster.
Security will also be tightly monitored, not only for the Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) but also for the agency personnel inside.
He also said that one of the most needed equipment in BJMP facilities today is X-ray machines, which will serve as security screening tools to reduce the amount of contraband confiscated every year in the jails.
Despite tightened manual inspections, some contraband still manages to slip through.
It can be recalled that in October, BJMP-NCR personnel simultaneously destroyed various contraband items from different jails.
In addition, they plan to increase the number of CCTV cameras in all NCR jail facilities next year to address existing gaps.
Meanwhile, regarding the PDLs, the agency remains focused on their welfare, security, and health.
Their livelihood programs, ALS program, religious services, and mental health support also continue.
Based on BJMP-NCR data, the congestion rate of jails in the region has decreased to 391% with the help of newly constructed facilities and support from local government units.
Montalvo personally inspects the jails to ensure that their programs are implemented and that BJMP rules are being followed.
Currently, the largest jail facilities in the NCR are located in Manila, followed by Quezon City Jail and Caloocan City Jail.