Better rehab awaits Ilonggo inmates in new IRC
"We are ready," warden says of transfer to"hi-tech" jail
Iloilo -- There will be new time for sun-bathing or sunning. There will also be set time for bathing, eating, television viewing and yes, reading in the new Iloilo Rehabilitation Center (IRC) as inmates and the entire IRC administration awaits transfer.
From the cramped conditions on the present IRC site by the Iloilo Provincial Capitol grounds, the 850 inmates can further expect better and more comfortable accommodations. Such, as the IRC"s records and some needed jail fixtures have already been sent to the new site at Barangay Nanga, Pototan, Iloilo.
This was disclosed by retired Police Senior Supt. Juan Mabugat, IRC jail warden when reached for interview by The News Today (TNT). The transfer has since been much-awaited with at least P70 million in government funds spent for the construction of the new site.
"We have been prepared since then," Senior Supt. Mabugat began. "But there was a problem on the schedules. We are ready though and anytime, our inmates and administration workforce including the guards are all set."
The transfer has since met several snags and postponements. Of late, the reported schedule was set on January 28. This date is certain to be changed anew with the arrival of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
"Once the blessing of the new IRC will be done, then our transfer is a go," he added while saying that changes will have to be effected on the transition period.
For a week, the warden disclosed, there will be no visits in the jail for the families of the inmates. This, Senior Supt. Mabugat explained is needed in order to give time for the new set-up to be in place.
However, due notices will be given to the families of the inmates to avert future inconvenience and complaints.
Once fully operational, the new IRC will have room for the rehabilitation of 1,200 inmates with each cell designed to have 8 prisoners each.
"For now though we only have one wing and the mess hall so we will have 12 inmates per cell and they will still be comfortable because the single cell with four bunk beds (double-deck beds) can accommodate more additional beds," the warden explained.
Meantime, there will be no additional jail guard for the new jail with Mabugat"s earlier request disapproved.
"What I got was additional workforce, civilian staff to augment the efforts of the 86 jail guards in terms of office and kitchen work. It is okay. What is needed here is wise management and maximum utilization of our present personnel," he ended.