Prisoner escapes Lapu-lapu jail

AN INMATE escaped from the Lapu-Lapu City jail by way of his cell’s ceiling and using plastic straws to climb down the fence.

Rex Mata, 26, who is facing charges for possession of illegal drugs and robbery, was discovered missing after yesterday morning’s routine head count.

The jail guard who was on duty when Mata escaped could be suspended for negligence, according to Jail Warden Reynante Rubio.

A native of Olango island, Mata was jailed last September after charges for violation of the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 were filed against him. He had been jailed several times before, mostly for his involvement in the illegal drug trade and in robbery incidents./CORRESPONDENT NORMAN V. MENDOZA