Ordinary inmates now occupy NBP kubols

MANILA, Philippines - Four to eight ordinary prisoners are currently occupying each of the 3,113 kubols or special cubicles at the New Bilibid Prisons (NBP), an official said yesterday.

Superintendent II Ramon Reyes said these kubols – which used to house only one moneyed convict – have been refurbished since the controversy involving former Batangas governor and homicide convict Antonio Leviste’s “wanderings” broke out in May.

Reyes was interviewed by reporters after newly-appointed Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) chief Gaudencio Pangilinan opened the NBP gates for yet another ocular inspection.

The development was an offshoot of the congressional inquiry conducted by congressmen and Justice Secretary Leila de Lima in NBP last month.

The inquiry was triggered by the illegal furlough of Leviste, who was arrested in Makati City in May.

His arrest paved the way for the discovery of other illegal activities in the state penitentiary, including rampant drug use and prostitution.

Reyes said before the kubols were “refurbished,” NBP officials had to hold dialogue with the “bosyos” or the inmates’ council of elders to ensure a smooth operation.

Muntinlupa City Rep. Rodolfo Biazon lauded the changes. “It’s not good for other inmates to see this unequal treatment, unequal privileges,” said Biazon, who authored a modernization plan for the BuCor.

Yesterday’s inspection was the fourth since Leviste’s caper.