Dr. Fortun raises TB concerns among inmates at New Bilibid

Forensic pathologist Dr. Raquel Fortun raised concerns about tuberculosis among inmates who died at the New Bilibid Prisons in Muntinlupa City.

Dr. Fortun has conducted over 100 autopsies on persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) since 2022, with preliminary reports indicating a significant number of TB cases.

Bureau of Corrections Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang acknowledged the health concerns and noted that ongoing decongestion efforts aim to reduce inmate numbers by the end of 2025.

At a signing ceremony for cooperation among the Department of Justice (DOJ), UP College of Medicine, and UN Office on Drugs and Crime, Fortun emphasized the need to address health issues inside prisons.

The declaration aims to enhance criminal investigations and improve medical forensic expertise in investigating PDL deaths within the Bureau of Corrections' jurisdiction.