P26M allotted for 40 jail guards

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — The Negros Occidental provincial government is set to release a total amount of P26 million for the compensation of 40 Provincial Jail guards who were terminated effective October 31.

Provincial Legal Officer Jose Ma. Valencia said the amount will cover the separation pay and other benefits of the jail guards who used to work at the now defunct Negros Occidental Provincial Jail along Gatuslao St. in the city.

The jail guards were not absorbed by the Negros Occidental District Jail in Brgy. Tabunan Bago City, which is now being managed by the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology.

In July, the inmates of the old jail were transferred to the newly-built district jail. There were 70 guards at the old jail but only 30 of them were absorbed by the BJMP to man the new jail.

He said the 40 guards were supposed to have been terminated in June but got an employment extension from Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. until October so they can avail of yearend benefits.

Valencia also disclosed that he has ordered to secure the old jail amid reports that scrap and other materials in the edifice have been stolen. Blue guards have been hired to secure the property.

He further said that whoever will purchase the old jail's property will take charge of the demolition of the structures, but the historical arch there will be retained.

So far only the 888 Chinatown Square has expressed interest in the property. The mall management is proposing to build a three-storey commercial building in the site, Valencia said. - THE FREEMAN