Compostela inmates to continue noise barrage

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – At least 500 inmates of the provincial rehabilitation center in Compostela Valley are set to end today their hunger strike that started last Nov. 27, but vowed to continue their daily noise barrage to press the speedy resolution of their court cases.

The inmates have been holding a 15-minute noise barrage thrice a day on the rooftop of the detention facility since last October to call attention to their predicament.

Aside from the speedy resolution of their cases, the inmates also reportedly wanted their elderly and sickly colleagues be given proper medical care and that “political prisoners” in their ranks be released.

The protesting inmates also asked authorities to improve facilities at the rehabilitation center even if plans are afoot for the transfer of the provincial jail to Nabunturan town.

The provincial rehabilitation center is currently located within the premises of the Davao del Norte provincial jail in Tagum City.