'Celda Sesenta': Manila City Jail opens special cells for elderly PDLs
By Chito Chavez
(MB FILE PHOTO)
The Manila City Jail Male Dormitory (MCJMD) opened a specialized dormitory to cater to the needs of the elderly persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) said on Friday, July 25.
Named "Celda Sesenta," the MCJMD noted that the cell can accommodate 96 senior residents and is specially-designed to meet the unique needs of the elderly PDLs.
The facility features individual bed bunks, a shared living and dining area, a nurse station manned by BJMP nurses and trained PDL aides, as well as wellness and care programs focused on the physical and emotional needs of senior citizens in custody.
"GMA Pictures generously donated set pieces and props from their 2024 award-winning film 'Green Bones.' These elements were incorporated into the space to create a more home-like and dignified environment for the elderly PDL," the MCJMD said.
Former Supreme Court Justice Antonio Carpio, BJMP-National Capital Region head, Chief Supt. Baby Noel Montalvo, MCJMD warden Supt. Lino Soriano and members of the media were among those present during its recent inauguration.
The BJMP also assured that the NCR jail facilities are routinely inspected to ensure the safety and security of the PDLs and jail personnel with the continuous heavy rainfall due to "habagat" or southwest monsoon.
With Montalvo personally leading the inspection, the BJMP-NCR pointed out that the initiative aims to proactively assess the structural integrity of jail facilities, verify the readiness of emergency response plans, and evaluate the overall condition of PDL living quarters amid persistent weather disturbances.
Montalvo assured the public and the families of PDLs that all necessary actions are being taken to maintain secure, safe, and humane detention facilities, especially in times of inclement weather.