Groups call for mass testing, release of prisoners amid COVID-19

On Monday, March 23, KAPATID and Karapatan called for mass testing of prisoners in congested jails amid rising COVID-19 cases.

KAPATID spokesperson Fides Lim questioned Interior Secretary Eduardo Año's claim that prisons are '100% safe' from the virus, citing poor hygiene conditions and lack of social distancing measures.

Karapatan deputy secretary general Roneo Clamor echoed similar concerns, stating that overcrowding and inadequate medical facilities make jails vulnerable to the spread of the virus.

Both groups urged for the release of certain prisoners on humanitarian grounds, including elderly individuals, those with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, and those due for parole or pardon.