3 more MCJ inmates die

Three more inmates of the Manila City Jail died of illness over the weekend, bringing to nine the number of MCJ inmates who have died in the institution in the past three weeks.

Police identified the dead inmates as Felix Rodeo, 36, who was facing charges of murder; Rodrigo Suyat, 287, charged with robbery and Ramon Tipura, 48, charged with trespassing and violation of the Anti-Drugs Law.

Investigators said all the inmates died while undergoing medical treatment at the Jose Reyes Medical Memorial Center. Police noted that the inmates initially underwent observation at the MCJ infirmary but were transferred to JRMMC after their conditions worsened. Police said Rodeo died yesterday morning, while Suyat and Tipura passed away Saturday morning.

Investigator SPO2 Ernesto Jose said Suyat had complained to his co-inmates of chest pains while they were cleaning their area. Before the other inmates could attend to him, Suyat collapsed prompting his companions to rush him to the infirmary.

Jose said the case of Suyat and other inmates could have something to do with the condition in the congested jail. – Cecille Suerte Felipe