BJMP Chief Conducts Comprehensive Inspection of Negros Occidental District Jail
Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Chief Ruel Rivera led a detailed inspection of the Negros Occidental District Jail Male Dormitory and Female Dormitory in Bago City on February 17, 2026. This visit underscores the bureau's ongoing commitment to ensuring humane conditions and professional management within correctional facilities across the Philippines.
Assessment of Facilities and Dialogue with Inmates
During the inspection, Chief Rivera was accompanied by Jail Chief Superintendent Brendan Fulgencio, the BJMP-Negros Island Region (NIR) director. According to Jail Chief Inspector Juniven Rey Umadhay, the BJMP-NIR spokesperson, Rivera thoroughly assessed the physical condition of the jail facilities. He engaged in meaningful dialogues with persons deprived of liberty (PDL) and held conferences with jail personnel to address operational concerns.
Rivera emphasized that this visit reaffirmed the bureau's unwavering dedication to humane safekeeping and the professional administration of all detention centers. He extended a formal commendation from the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government to BJMP units nationwide for maintaining a record of zero human rights violations involving PDL. Safeguarding the constitutional rights of all inmates remains a core institutional mandate, Rivera stated.
Updates on Budget and Welfare Initiatives
Chief Rivera shared critical updates from recent House of Representatives budget deliberations. Discussions focused on the welfare of all PDL, including those allegedly affiliated with progressive groups. The BJMP leadership reiterated that every inmate receives equal protection under the law, regardless of their affiliations.
Regarding a recent petition to remove the jail warden, Rivera acknowledged the proactive and lawful response of the regional management. He highlighted that a transparent, rights-based approach successfully resolved the issues while maintaining strict facility discipline.
Enhanced Allowances and Support Systems
Umadhay detailed several significant welfare updates announced during the visit:
- The Prisoner's Subsistence Allowance (PSA) has been increased from P70 to P100 per day. This adjustment aligns with the New Government Procurement Act, the Sagip Saka Act, and Executive Order 51, s. 1999, to ensure greater transparency in food procurement.
- Allocations for Prisoner Medical Support Expenses have been strengthened, with enhanced partnerships established with local hospitals to provide specialized medical care.
- A dedicated budget for hygiene kits has been introduced to improve sanitation standards within the facilities.
Personnel Benefits and Policy Reiterations
For BJMP personnel, Rivera discussed implemented salary increases for uniformed members and an additional Personnel Subsistence Allowance of P200 per day. These adjustments were executed through a memorandum from the Chief Finance Service Office.
Rivera also clarified the mechanics of performance-based bonuses, explaining how operational incidents impact regional eligibility. He provided updated timelines for regular promotions and lateral entry processes, aimed at reducing time-in-grade and enhancing career progression.
Notably, Rivera highlighted pending legislation that seeks to upgrade the BJMP leadership to a four-star rank, aligning it with the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Strict 'No-VIP' Policy and Integrity Standards
Chief Rivera strongly underscored the bureau's strict 'no-VIP' policy, particularly in light of recent high-profile committals in other facilities. He stressed that all PDL are treated equally under established rules and regulations, regardless of their social or political profile.
Rivera reminded personnel of the paramount importance of discipline and accountability, citing recent cases where erring officers faced dismissal, suspension, or other penalties. Integrity and professionalism are non-negotiable standards in the service, he emphasized.
Reaffirmation of Core Mandate
Rivera reiterated that the BJMP's service must always prioritize the protection of the rights and dignity of PDL while ensuring security and order within all facilities. He assured both personnel and inmates that the Bureau remains steadfast in its mandate to promote humane safekeeping and institutional reforms grounded in transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights.
