The heat in Philippine jails and prisons is unbearable, with temperatures ranging from 37 to 41 degrees Celsius with a heat index of 50 degrees Celsius. Combined with the additional body heat from overcrowding, Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) face significant risks of heat-related illnesses. These conditions are exacerbated by severe congestion, which averages 350 percent over capacity in many facilities, leading to innumerable sufferings for the PDLs.
Efforts by jail wardens to mitigate these conditions have been proactive. They have ensured the removal of materials that impede cell ventilation. A warden has allowed PDLs to create makeshift swimming pools for relief (not flashy, it used to be a fishpond).
Some wardens have also enforced regular hydration among inmates and conducted information dissemination campaigns to educate them on rehydration methods.
In support, the Office of the Court Administrator of the Supreme Court has issued a circular mandating all trial courts to visit jails. Many judges have complied, observing the extreme heat, humidity, and overcrowding. Some judges have even offered to bring electric fans to help alleviate the ventilation issues.
While these palliative measures by wardens and judges are commendable, they are insufficient in addressing the root of the problem. With some jails experiencing congestion rates as high as 1000 percent, more comprehensive policies are necessary. Specifically, the courts should develop and implement policies to release medically vulnerable PDLs on humanitarian grounds. This includes elderly inmates, those who are sickly or have physical disabilities, and first-time offenders who pose little risk of reoffending but lack the financial means to post bail.
Alignment with International Standards
The current conditions in Philippine jails starkly contrast with the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, also known as the Nelson Mandela Rules. These rules emphasize that "prison conditions that infringe upon human dignity are to be avoided and prohibited" and that "the safety, dignity and humane treatment of prisoners must be ensured" (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, 2015). The severe overcrowding and high temperatures in Philippine prisons clearly infringe upon these standards.
Recommendations for Policy Changes
Humanitarian Release Policies: Courts should establish criteria for the humanitarian release of medically vulnerable PDLs. This includes elderly inmates, those with serious health conditions, physical disabilities, and first-time offenders who are unable to post bail.
Improved Ventilation Systems: Investments in infrastructure to improve ventilation in prison facilities should be prioritized. This could include the installation of additional fans or air conditioning units, where feasible.
Regular Health Monitoring: Implement regular health monitoring and medical check-ups for PDLs, focusing on those with pre-existing conditions that can be exacerbated by extreme heat.
Continued Judicial Oversight: Maintain and expand the current practice of judicial visits to prisons to ensure ongoing monitoring of conditions and prompt addressing of issues as they arise.
By aligning domestic prison policies with international standards and taking urgent action to address the severe overcrowding and heat, the Philippines can significantly improve the welfare and human rights of its PDLs.
References:
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. (2015). The United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (the Nelson Mandela Rules).
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