138 Calapan City jail inmates undergo TB, HIV screening

CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro — Over a hundred persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Calapan City district jail have received free tuberculosis (TB) and HIV screening, as part of measures in ensuring the health and well-being of those in their care.

A total of 138 PDLs — 130 men and eight women — availed of the services under the Department of Health’s (DOH) program for tuberculosis active case finding, chest X-ray screening, and provider-initiated counseling and testing.

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JO3 Joefrie Anglom information officer of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) of the Mimaropa region, said that the comprehensive health check included chest X-rays, TB assessment, HIV counseling and testing, and related medical evaluations,  designed to detect ailments early so PDLs can get the treatment and support they need right away.

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Custodial facilities carry higher risks of disease spread due to shared living spaces, making regular health checks especially critical for PDLs, Anglo said.

“Above all else, this program is about looking after our PDLs. It lets us spot health concerns at the earliest possible stage and give them timely care they deserve. Keeping them healthy is the foundation of humane custody — and it also protects our personnel and the communities they will eventually return to,” Anglo said.

Jail Senior Inspector Leslie Dangupon, acting district jail warden,  emphasized that accessible, quality healthcare is a basic right for every PDL.

“Our primary goal is to ensure their well-being while they are with us. Through our continued partnership with the DOH, we are making sure no one is left behind when it comes to health services. We want to give them every chance to stay healthy, recover if they are unwell, and focus on their rehabilitation,” Dangupon said.

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Anglo said that the results of the test are currently being evaluated by the DOH  and if any PDL requires further assessment or treatment, they will be referred to appropriate health facilities in accordance with established health protocols.

The BJMP said that it will keep working with health agencies and other partners to expand regular medical check-ups and health programs across all its facilities, as part of its commitment to protecting the dignity and welfare of PDLs. /jpv

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