BJMP, Aklan rehab center take measures to prevent escapes
BY VENUS G. VILLANUEVA

KALIBO, Aklan - The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and the Aklan Rehabilitation Center (ARC) here are strictly implementing measures in their respective institutions to prevent inmates from escaping, as what has happened in some parts of the country.
In a radio interview, both BJMP Provincial Administrator Edmundo Cortezan and ARC Provincial Warden Cristito Angub said their personnel are alert and on constant lookout as to signs of unrest or trouble in their respective buildings, both located in Nalook, Kalibo, Aklan.
Sr. Insp. Cortezan said that in Aklan, their building is very secured and most often, high profile detainees, involving cases of drug trafficking and murder, are remitted to them. However, he said it is the courts that decide where to remit the inmates. This was also echoed by ARC Provincial Warden Angob, who stressed it is up to the courts to decide whether to remit the detainees to the BJMP or the ARC.
To fully eliminate the risk of escapes, Col. Angub said the provincial government here under Governor Carlito Marquez is presently constructing the perimeter fence of the ARC.
Presently, inmates at the BJMP have a daily budget of P40.00 each, while those at the ARC have P30.00 each.
To help the inmates earn money while inside the rehabilitation center, Col. Angob said they (inmates) are allowed to cultivate vegetable gardens inside the compound. Some inmates also take care of pigs inside to augment their income, and those who are skilled carpenters engaged in furniture making.
At the BJMP, inmates avail of training from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on practical electricity, appliances repair and other skills so when they get released from detention, they can use these as their means of livelihood.
Currently, the BJMP houses 133 inmates while the ARC houses 176.