MANILA, Philippines — Eighteen more persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) have tested positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), CIW Superintendent Virginia Mangawit said in her report to Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Director Gerald Bantag.
Aside from the 18 PDLs, one employee of the facility likewise tested positive.
Forty two PDLs and 9 BuCor medical personnel were tested after an inmate was admitted to a government hospital and tested positive for the viral respiratory illness.
The PCR test was conducted by the Philippine Red Cross.
Mangawit said those who tested positive have mild symptoms while some did not exhibit symptoms.
“They are now being monitored and given vitamins, medicines and food supplements to strengthen their immune system,” she said.
Part of the government’s measure to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is physical distancing, meaning keeping at least six feet or two meters distance from other individuals.
In prison facilities, however, physical distancing is not feasible due to the congestion which is why there have been calls for the temporary release of vulnerable PDLs.
At CIW, there are already 3,196 inmates.
The CIW said it has implemented additional preventive measures such as contact tracing and isolation of those exposed and testing of all persons suspected and probable COVID-19 cases.
CIW has also augmented its medical personnel as well as supplies for vitamins and food supplements. It has also enhanced its coordination with government hospitals to receive the PDLs requiring hospital care.
“The CIW needs more vitamins, food supplements that promote the immune system, beds and big tents,” she added.
RELATED STORIES:
SC urged to exercise ‘extraordinary powers’ to allow inmates’ release amid COVID-19 crisis
SC issues guidelines to decongest jails amid coronavirus pandemic
GSG