DILG orders probe of Iloilo inmates’ protest

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) ordered yesterday an investigation into the noise barrage staged by inmates at the Iloilo District Jail in Pototan town on Wednesday.

“The DILG views with great concern the protest made by inmates at the Iloilo District Jail, where they climbed onto the roof of the prison building allegedly because of lack of food and to demand for the relief of the jail warden,” it said in a statement.

The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) relieved Chief Inspector Norberto Miciano as jail warden to pave the way for an impartial investigation.

The DILG directed BJMP-Western Visayas director Supt. Clint Russel Tangeres to address the concerns of the inmates and ensure that they have adequate food and necessities.

More than 100 inmates held a noise barrage to protest what they claimed to be the lack of and poor quality of food in the facility.

The DILG said it is committed to adhere to standards that ensure the humane treatment of inmates.

“We will continue to undertake measures to improve jail services and facilities to help in the rehabilitation of persons deprived of liberty and their eventual reintegration to the society,” the DILG said.