CPDRC rejects "rebel leader"

CEBU, Philippines - Suspected rebel leader Ramon Patriarca literally has no space in the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center (CPDRC).

Capitol consultant on jail matters Jose Ma. Gastardo told reporters that CPDRC could no longer accommodate Patriarca as the jail facility is already filled with 1,600 inmates, which has even exceeded the 1,200-inmate capacity.

“Mibalibad na mi ug dawat kay puno na ang CPDRC, (We refused him because CPDRC is already full.)” Gastardo said.

Gastardo said Governor Gwendolyn Garcia directed the jail warden to no longer accept inmates at CPDRC, citing the same reason.

In fact, Gastardo said they recently refused an inmate from the Dumanjug Police Station.

If Patriarca insists, Gastardo said the political detainee should secure a court order first to transfer detention from Camp Lapu-lapu to CPDRC.

Patriarca, who was brought to the Camp Lapu-lapu detention cell early this year, staged a hunger strike since June 1, claiming it as a protest against the circumstances surrounding his continuing detention. He is a consultant of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines.

He said his protest will run until the court grants his appeal to transfer him back to the CPDRC.

From the Danao City Jail, Patriarca was transferred to Camp Lapu-lapu of the Central Command because he is considered a “high risk criminal.” He was allegedly influencing his fellow detainees.

Patriarca said he should not be detained at Camp Lapu-lapu where he was allegedly subjected to torture and human rights violations. –(FREEMAN)