DEPARTMENT of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos today pushed for reforms that would lead to the decongestion of jail facilities nationwide to attain what he described as an enhanced justice system in the country.
“As one of the principals of the Justice Sector Coordinating Council (JSCC), the DILG remains steadfast in supporting initiatives to address jail overcrowding, and contribute to the enhancement of our criminal justice system (in the country),” he said in his message read by Undersecretary Juan Victor R. Llamas during the National Decongestion Summit.
According to Abalos, jail overcrowding leads to deplorable conditions for PDLs which compromise their health and well-being, and hinders their seamless reintegration into society.
He further explained that through the participation of various sectors and the support of the legislative branch of the government, the much-needed reforms to address jail congestion will be legislated and adequate funds to support these reforms will be given.
Spearheaded by the JSCC, the National Decongestion Summit with the theme “Decongest and Reintegrate: A Conference to Unlock Solutions to Jail and Prison Overcrowding” was held at the Diamond Hotel in Manila.
JSCC serves as a joint forum for dialogue, coordination and sharing of information in support of planning and implementation of joint initiatives of the Supreme Court, the Department of Justice, and the DILG.
“In our pursuit of Bagong Pilipinas, let us ensure that no one is left behind or marginalized in peace and development,” he said.
The Philippines has 165,000 persons incarcerated which is 11th most worldwide, and ranks third in overcrowding rate.
Meanwhile, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, representing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., said the problem of jail congestion requires a whole-of-government approach “to ensure the efficient, effective, and compassionate administration of justice in the country.”
He likewise urged the JSCC to pursue the streamlining and digitalization of its frontline and back-end services.
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, and officials from the DILG and DOJ also graced the event.
