THE IMPACT OF JAIL CONGESTION TO PERSON DEPRIVED OF LIBERTY AT MANILA CITY JAIL

Abstract

Congested jails are a major global problem, with many countries struggling to provide adequate space and resources for their prison populations. Overcrowding occurs when the number of inmates exceeds a facility’s capacity to the point where they can no longer be housed in a humane, healthy, and psychologically supportive environment. This study explored overcrowding in Manila City Jail to understand the impact of jail congestion on the health and well-being of people in custody. This study involved 30 respondents, composed of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) and ten (10) jail officers from Manila City Jail. The researchers employed purposive sampling to determine the number of respondents required for the study. A descriptive research design was utilized to assess the impact of jail congestion on persons deprived of liberty at Manila City Jail. For the administration and retrieval of the instrument, the researchers personally approached respondents, obtained informed consent, and distributed the surveys. Once completed, the questionnaires were collected and stored securely to ensure confidentiality. Most of the respondents were male persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) aged 26–33. Their assessment of the impact of jail congestion at Manila City Jail was interpreted as “Agree” in relation to infectious diseases, living conditions, malnutrition, stress, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and anxiety. The most frequently encountered problem associated with jail congestion was “insufficient living space.” To address this issue, the proposed measure is to construct additional cellblocks or dormitories to increase available living space. It is recommended that persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) be provided with programs that promote positive attitudes and behaviors while addressing the underlying causes of their offenses. Regular medical exams and access to essential healthcare services are essential for PDLs' physical health. Access to mental health professionals within correctional facilities and in the community is crucial for providing timely and appropriate care. Recidivism can be decreased and PDLs' lives can be improved by addressing and enforcing regulations that meet their needs.