2 MPD detainees die of heat stroke

MANILA, Philippines - Two detainees of the Manila Police District (MPD) died reportedly due to heat stroke at dawn yesterday.

Police identified the fatalities as Michael Justiniave, 44, of Phase 9, Bagong Silang in Quezon City, and Rolly Olarte, 37, of Facundo street in Pasay.

Another detainee, Ireneo Concordia, 42, of Tramo, Pasay, remains under observation at the Ospital ng Maynila, according to Senior Police Officer 2 John Charles Duran.

Duran said the three collapsed at their cell at the MPD Station 9 in Malate due to overcrowding at around 2:20 a.m.

Police said around 114 detainees are being held at the detention facility, which can accommodate only 50 people.

Authorities said jails in Manila are congested due the government’s war on drugs.

Last week, a 63-year-old detainee of the MPD Station 4 died of dehydration and infection.

Police said the suspect was held on drug charges.