Manila jail welcomes Lumbao

Some 3,771 inmates of the Manila City Jail yesterday welcomed Ronald Lumbao, leader of the pro-Estrada group People’s Movement Against Poverty (PMAP) as one of their own.

Lumbao, who is facing rebellion charges, arrived at the MCJ from Camp Crame in Quezon City at about 10 a.m.

"He is our first inmate who is facing rebellion. We will do our best to accommodate him," said Jail Senior Superintendent Norvel Mingoa, MCJ warden.

Lumbao arrived with his wife Lisa amid tight security. His fingerprints and photograph were taken before being taken to the MCJ’s Cell 4 to join 201 other inmates. Inmates who are not members of any gangs are usually taken to Cell 4.

Mingoa said the jail would do everything to keep Lumbao healthy and safe. He added that Lumbao will be allowed to accept visitors.

It will be recalled that Manila Judge Teresa Soriaso ordered Lumbao’s transfer to the MCJ from his detention cell at the Philippine National Police-Intelligence Group headquarters in Camp Crame.

Lumbao was arrested last April 25 in Novaliches, Quezon City by police intelligence agents. Lumbao is accused of instigating the violent siege at Malacañang last May 1,2001.

Meanwhile, PMAP spokesman Arnold Obina condemned Lumbao’s transfer as he expressed concern that the transfer could cost Lumbao his health and safety.– Mike Frialde