BJMP: Inmates near Taal Volcano safe

LIPA, Philippines — Aside from the preemptive evacuation of residents, inmates in jails  near Taal Volcano have been transferred to safer ground.

At least 45 inmates in the Lemery municipal jail were transferred to the Batangas City jail on Sunday and Monday, Chief Inspector Xavier Solda, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) spokesman, said.

“Huwag mag-alala ang mga pamilya ng PDL (persons deprived of liberty) na may kamaganak na nakakulong sa mga jails ng BJMP malapit sa Bulkang Taal. Maayos at ligtas ang kanilang kalagayan,” Solda said. 

Jail facilities in Calabarzon have been placed on red alert since the volcano erupted on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Solda said jail officers would be tapped in clearing and relief operations in affected areas in coordination with other agencies.

 BJMP chief Allan Iral led the distribution of relief goods to affected personnel during his visit to the Lipa City jail yesterday.