The Senate has recently passed Senate Bill (SB) 2352, also known as the “Jail Management Act,” on its second reading. This bill aims to transfer the control and supervision of provincial and sub-provincial jails to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP). The sponsor and one of the authors of the measure, Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, introduced and accepted amendments for SB 2352.
According to Sen. dela Rosa, while the BJMP is already responsible for the handling of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), it is his belief that the authority to manage jails should be fully given to them under the law. This proposed transfer of control and supervision is seen as a way to streamline the management of jails and ensure consistent standards across the country.
Under the provisions of the bill, the management, control, and supervision of provincial and sub-provincial jails, including all property, equipment, and finances, will be transferred to the BJMP, subject to existing laws. However, a three-year transition period will be established from the date of the law’s effectivity.
During this transition period, the concerned provincial government will continue to fund the subsistence allowance of inmates and the maintenance of the jail facility. This includes expenses such as electricity, water, and necessary repairs. The provincial government will maintain financial responsibility until the total control and supervision of the facility have been transferred to the BJMP.
To ensure a smooth transition, employees and personnel of provincial and sub-provincial jails will enjoy security of tenure and will be automatically absorbed by the BJMP. This absorption will be subject to the qualification standards set forth in Republic Act (RA) 9263, known as the “Bureau of Fire Protection and Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Professionalization Act of 2004,” as amended, and other applicable laws and regulations of the Civil Service Commission (CSC).
Employees who do not meet the qualification standards at the time of transfer will be given a five-year grace period to complete the necessary requirements. Additionally, the provincial government is encouraged to automatically absorb employees who have reached the mandatory retirement age at the time the law becomes effective.
For employees who choose to separate from the service as a result of the transfer, they will receive separation benefits as provided for by existing laws. Furthermore, those who qualify for retirement will be allowed to do so and will be entitled to all benefits provided under existing retirement laws.
The passage of this bill marks a significant step towards improving the management and supervision of jails in the country. By consolidating control under the BJMP, it is hoped that the overall efficiency and effectiveness of jail management will be enhanced, ensuring the welfare and security of both inmates and personnel.
It is important to note that this bill is still subject to further deliberation and approval before it becomes law. However, the Senate’s support and the progress made so far indicate a positive direction towards better jail management in the Philippines.
Source: The Manila Times
