The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) is gravely concerned with the recent report by Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) on the deaths of three persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) and the injury of fourteen other PDLs after a riot occurred at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City on New Year’s Day. Injured and killed PDLs reportedly sustained bullet wounds. Four improvised firearms and sixteen bladed weapons were recovered during the clearing operations. Three more improvised firearms were surrendered later by other PDLs.

We recall that in October 2020, a similar incident occurred that was investigated by CHR (https://bit.ly/3JDtf6G). In this instance, CHR will also conduct a motu propio investigation to probe the re-occurrence of violence, which imperils the safety and lives of PDLs.

Detention facilities and jails have the obligation to protect PDLs, including ensuring an environment that is free from harm, violence, and cruelty. It is concerning how those involved in the riot have been able to hide numerous deadly improvised weapons without detection prior to the incident.

CHR, as the lead agency in the Interim National Preventive Mechanism, consistently recommends proactive measures to combat all forms of cruel, violent, and inhuman situations inside prisons. This includes ensuring that no violent nor deadly weapons can reach the hands of PDLs to prevent violence and harm inside jails.

We urge the Department of Justice to take cognizance of this incident and for the BuCor to investigate and to tighten security measures to ensure that jail violence will not be repeated. The right to a safe and peaceful environment free from violence and harm remain even in prison. This is essential for the genuine reform and welfare of PDLs in line with the principles of restorative justice. ###