Catapang directs medical assessment of PDLs

Bureau of Corrections director general Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. has directed the conduct of comprehensive medical assessments of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) following cases of amoebiasis.

The directive followed a report submitted by CT/Chief Supt. Ma. Cecilia Villanueva, chief of the Directorate for Health and Welfare Services at the NBP Hospital, based on an epidemiological analysis conducted by CTCINSP Kristoffer Solis, medical officer on duty.

The analysis showed that amoebiasis cases were predominantly concentrated at the Reception and Diagnostic Center (RDC), where newly committed PDLs are housed for up to 60 days.

Of the 95 recorded cases from January to June, 92, or 96.84 percent, were recorded at the RDC. The remaining cases included one at the Maximum Security Camp and two at the Medium Security Camp.

The morbidity data underscored the need for immediate intervention to control and prevent further spread of the disease within the prison. The RDC serves as a quarantine and diagnostic facility, with a five-day quarantine period followed by a 55-day orientation, diagnostic evaluation and initial security classification for newly admitted inmates.

To curb the spread of amoebiasis, Catapang ordered the continued implementation of strict cleanliness protocols and the provision of necessary medical supplies, including sulfur soap.