NBP inmates allowed ‘controlled’ holiday visits

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) has allowed “controlled” visitations in the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) for the holidays.

In a statement, BuCor said the controlled visitations in the national penitentiary started yesterday and will be enforced until Jan. 1.

Each inmate is allowed only one visitor, who could meet with them face-to-face for only 15 minutes. No physical contact is allowed. Both inmates and visitors must observe health protocols to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Visitors must present a medical certificate indicating they do not have symptoms of any illness before they are allowed into the NBP. Only those who are between 18 and 60 years old are allowed.

Visitors are also barred from wearing jackets, sleeveless tops, shorts, leggings and similar clothing, the BuCor said.

The inmates at the NBP’s north quadrant of the maximum security compound were allowed visitors yesterday. Each quadrant was given two non-consecutive days for visitations.

Prisoners at the medium and minimum security compounds and reception and diagnostics center have their daily visitations until New Year’s Day.