Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has expressed openness to the idea of constructing a separate prison facility for Muslim inmates, but he cited several concerns like budget availability.
“It can be done, but it has to be comprehensively discussed because it is not really to have separate jails for different religions because the moment they have this, then all other religions might ask for a separate jail facility. Laging kulang ang budget,” Remulla said in press conference.
The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Muslim Affairs has recently recommended to the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) the establishment of a dedicated facility for Muslim persons deprived of liberty (PDLs).
Almarim C. Tillah, Presidential Adviser on Muslim Affairs, presented the proposal during a meeting with BuCor chief Gregorio Catapang, Jr.
“In discussions with various government agencies, including our Muslim brethren, the challenges faced by Muslim PDLs in our penitentiaries were highlighted, prompting the suggestion for a separate facility,” Tillah informed Catapang.
Tillah said that such an initiative could significantly benefit Muslim PDLs by preserving their culture within the prison system.
Muslims adhere to daily prayers, specific dietary requirements such as Halal meals, and observe fasting during Ramadan, all of which could be better facilitated in a dedicated facility.
Despite their status as PDLs, Tillah asserted their right to practice their faith, which he believes can aid in their rehabilitation.