The elderly and those with existing health conditions, which COVID-19 infection may aggravate, are also being considered,” De Guia said in a statement. Several groups have asked the executive, particularly the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), to release PDLs amid the threat of COVID-19. BJMP Spokesperson Xavier Solda said that at least 21 detainees are now in isolation and have been tested for possible COVID-19 infection. CHR assured that they will continue monitoring the situation inside jails if releasing PDLs would not be considered as an option. As of Tuesday, the entire Luzon is still under an enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer April 14, 2020 09:22 UTC