Año: All detention cells still COVID-19-free

Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said on Friday that all detention cells in the country are still free from COVID-19.

The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) have suspended jail visits to prevent the spread of the disease.

BuCor spokesperson Gabriel Chaglag reported that no inmate has shown symptoms of COVID-19, and all BuCor facilities remain free from the virus.

Inmates in BuCor facilities have received hygiene kits and protective masks, with priority given to vulnerable groups. Visitors are restricted except for food deliveries which undergo stringent screening.

BuCor is coordinating with local authorities and partner hospitals, conducting information drives on personal hygiene, and continuously assessing readiness against potential cases.