Investigation Launched into Alleged Strip and Cavity Searches at New Bilibid Prison
Seven Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) officers at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City have been relieved of their duties pending an investigation into complaints regarding the treatment of visitors. It is alleged that wives of inmates were forced to undergo strip and cavity searches during their visits to their spouses.
The officers who have been relieved of their duties have been identified as Correction Officers 1 Karen Soriano, Kiera Iket, Odesa Etong, Ahmor Darasin, Guada Bello, Melowyne Tallongan, and Angelique Domingo. The order relieving them of their duties was signed by Ruben Formoso, the acting NBP superintendent.
The investigation will focus on the manner in which the strip searches were conducted and whether the officers violated any protocols. BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. has justified the need for strip searches, citing the necessity to prevent the smuggling of contraband into correctional facilities.
Due to the volume of contraband being smuggled into the NBP, the strip and cavity searches have become mandatory. Correction Senior Inspector Abel Ciruela, the NBP maximum security camp commander, explained during a walkthrough with the media that the searches are necessary to maintain the safety and security of the prison.
However, visitors who do not wish to undergo a strip and cavity search have the option of resorting to online visitation. This alternative method allows for a visitation process that does not require physical contact or searches.
The absence of body scanners has necessitated the manual strip searches. Catapang acknowledged the need for more advanced technology, stating that they are actively seeking a budget to acquire body scanners. In the meantime, the manual searches are conducted to ensure the prevention of contraband smuggling.
The allegations of abuse of authority by prison officers and personnel have prompted Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla to order an immediate investigation. The Department of Justice remains committed to upholding the highest degree of respect for human rights in the execution of correctional functions. Secretary Remulla emphasized that degrading, inhuman, or absurd treatment will not be condoned.
“Our department guarantees that our agency will continue to innovate ways to improve our services,” Remulla stated. The goal is to ensure that prisons are safe, secure, and maintain a standard of decency for all individuals within their facilities.
International Context and Local Laws
Strip and cavity searches are controversial practices that are implemented in correctional facilities worldwide. While these searches are often conducted with the intention of preventing the smuggling of contraband, they have been subject to scrutiny due to concerns about human rights violations and personal privacy.
In the Philippines, the legality of strip and cavity searches is governed by local laws and regulations. The Revised Penal Code of the Philippines does not explicitly mention strip and cavity searches. However, the Bureau of Corrections, as the governing body responsible for the management of correctional facilities, has the authority to establish protocols and procedures for security measures.
It is essential to note that strip and cavity searches should be conducted in a manner that respects the dignity and rights of individuals. The use of force or any form of degrading treatment is strictly prohibited. International human rights standards, such as the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (the Nelson Mandela Rules), emphasize the importance of upholding the dignity and well-being of individuals in custody.
The allegations at the New Bilibid Prison raise concerns about the implementation of strip and cavity searches and whether they were conducted in accordance with established protocols. The investigation will shed light on the specific procedures followed by the relieved officers and whether any violations occurred.
Improving Correctional Practices
The allegations of strip and cavity searches highlight the need for continuous improvement in correctional practices. While the prevention of contraband smuggling is a legitimate concern, it is crucial to balance security measures with respect for human rights and personal privacy.
One potential solution to minimize the need for physical strip and cavity searches is the implementation of advanced technology, such as body scanners. These scanners can detect hidden contraband without the need for invasive searches, thereby reducing the potential for violations and ensuring the dignity of visitors.
Investing in technology and infrastructure can be a long-term solution to enhance security measures while upholding human rights standards. The acquisition of body scanners, as mentioned by BuCor Director General Catapang, would provide a more sophisticated and efficient means of detecting contraband.
In addition to technological advancements, training and education programs for correctional officers can play a crucial role in improving correctional practices. By providing officers with comprehensive training on human rights, ethics, and effective communication, they can develop the necessary skills to carry out their duties while respecting the rights and dignity of individuals in their care.
Furthermore, establishing clear guidelines and protocols for strip and cavity searches, as well as implementing rigorous oversight mechanisms, can help ensure that these searches are conducted in a fair and respectful manner. Regular monitoring and evaluation of correctional facilities can help identify areas for improvement and address any instances of misconduct or abuse.
It is essential to foster a culture of accountability within correctional institutions. This can be achieved through transparent investigations, prompt disciplinary actions for any wrongdoing, and the promotion of a zero-tolerance policy towards human rights violations. By holding individuals accountable for their actions, the correctional system can strive to regain public trust and confidence.
In conclusion, the allegations of strip and cavity searches at the New Bilibid Prison have prompted an investigation into the conduct of the relieved officers. The use of strip and cavity searches in correctional facilities is a contentious issue, and it is crucial to strike a balance between security measures and respect for human rights. Implementing advanced technology, providing comprehensive training for correctional officers, and establishing clear guidelines and protocols can contribute to improving correctional practices. By upholding the dignity and rights of individuals in custody, the correctional system can fulfill its mandate of ensuring safety, security, and rehabilitation.
Source: The Manila Times
