2 more CIW inmates test positive for COVID-19

Two more inmates at the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City have tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total number of infected inmates to 22.

These two new cases were part of a previous batch tested, with their results released on Thursday.

The infected inmates will be transferred to a quarantine facility at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City.

All 22 infected inmates are exhibiting mild symptoms or are asymptomatic, except for one inmate who is hospitalized.

The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) has stated that the positive patients are housed separately from the general inmate population.

Health checks at the CIW have been intensified as authorities investigate how the virus entered the facility.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has relaxed parole and executive clemency rules to process 200 applications weekly and reduce prison populations.