BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The Baguio City Jail-Male Dorm reported that more than half or 52.2 percent of the total 247 Persons Deprived Liberty (PDL) inmates are facing cases related to illegal drugs under Republic Act (RA) No. 6425 and RA No. 9165.

The report said that the remaining PDLs are facing various cases related to index crimes, including rape, robbery, theft, and crimes against persons and property.

The facility has a capacity of only 136 PDLs, resulting in an 80 percent congestion rate that poses health, safety, and rehabilitation challenges and highlights the need for immediate interventions to improve the prison conditions. It is currently operated by about 90 personnel of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and despite the overcrowding, the prison continues to maintain its commitment to the safe, secure, and humane management of PDLs.

The facility also reported the implementation of various innovative programs aimed at strengthening rehabilitation and community participation, reflecting its commitment to innovation, rehabilitation, and inclusiveness while advancing its mission to transform lives and contribute to a safer nation.

The Baguio City Jail-Male Dorm was previously recognized as the Best City Jail and Best City Jail Warden for consecutive quarters, with its best-performing units also receiving recognition.

The local government also issued commendations and certificates of recognition for Oplan Libreng Sakay, citing the discipline, cooperation, and dedication of the prison officers and staff in promoting safe and humane prison management.

The facility acknowledged that its current infrastructure has limited capacity, resulting in continued overcrowding and also cited inadequate ventilation and poor air circulation as concerns affecting both staff and PDLs, with these conditions affecting their health, comfort, and overall well-being.