Duterte reports 517 PDLs positive for COVID-19

President Duterte reported that 517 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) have tested positive for COVID-19.

This update was included in his ninth weekly report to Congress regarding the pandemic situation.

The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) identified 703 suspected, 86 probable, and 517 confirmed COVID-19 cases in its facilities as of May 19, 2020.

PDLs who tested positive are currently undergoing treatment in BJMP-established isolation facilities.

The BJMP is actively conducting contact tracing and has implemented swab testing, isolation centers, and intensified tracing in Cebu City jail facilities.

In relation to the interim rules on parole and executive clemency, 144 PDLs have been granted parole as of May 15, 2020, with 653 pending applications being processed.

The interim rules prioritize old, sickly, or terminally ill PDLs and simplify application procedures.

However, those convicted of heinous crimes, drug-related offenses, or considered high-risk inmates are excluded from these rules.

Additionally, 53 elderly PDLs were released from detention by court order as of May 12.

PDLs granted parole or executive clemency will be required to undergo a two-week quarantine before their release.