BJMP to allow 56,679 inmates to vote

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology has signed a memorandum of agreement that will allow 56,679 persons deprived of liberty (PDL) to cast their votes in the Oct. 30 barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections, a BJMP official said yesterday.

The BJMP signed the tripartite agreement with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) to ensure that detainees can vote.

“This initiative not only promotes inclusivity but also sets a promising precedent for future endeavors aimed at expanding access to voting for vulnerable and underrepresented groups,” BJMP chief Ruel Rivera said.

The agreement enjoins the BJMP to ensure a secure and conducive voting environment within jail facilities.

This includes putting up a special polling precinct or conducting escorted voting at a designated polling precinct while ensuring the safety and privacy of the inmate.

Meanwhile, the Comelec will provide the resources to facilitate PDL voting as it maintains the integrity of the electoral process.

The PAO will assist in the filing of motions before the courts to allow the inmate to be escorted outside the jail for voting.