By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Supreme Court (SC) has ordered judges to conduct jail visitation at least once within their respective jurisdictions before May 31 to determine how the Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) were being affected by the extreme heat.
“[A]ll concerned judges are DIRECTED to conduct jail visitation at least once within their respective jurisdictions on any day, not later than 31 May 2024, for the sole purpose of determining how PDLs are affected by this heat wave,” stated OCA Circular No. 131-2024.
According to the OCA, PDLs may also be negatively impacted by this extreme heat and weather conditions as they are detained in crowded facilities.
Within five calendar days after the jail visit of judges, they shall submit to their respective Executive Judges the required Court Jail Visitation and Inspection Report.
Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has reported that high heat index are being experienced in recent days in parts of the country.
(el Amigo/ MNM)
