Tensions at the Davao Oriental Provincial Jail have begun to ease after Governor Nelson Dayanghirang Sr. met with inmates following unrest that erupted Monday over complaints about conditions inside the facility.
According to the provincial government, inmates raised several concerns, including requests for improved food, a reliable water supply, regular medical checkups, longer family visitation beyond the current five-minute limit, the restoration of Tuesday and Saturday visitation schedules, permission to receive grocery items, and access to audio and video calls with relatives. They also called for changes in the jail’s administration.
In response, the local government immediately deployed an engineering team to repair damaged water lines inside the jail.
Following numerous complaints, Dayanghirang issued an executive order removing Jail Warden Apollo Conde from his position.
While the investigation into the incident is ongoing, the governor has temporarily assumed the role of provincial jail warden to oversee the facility and ensure its orderly management.
Security at the provincial jail has also been tightened as authorities seek to prevent the possible entry of illegal drugs.
Dayanghirang said the temporary suspension of jail visits and the restriction on bringing food into the facility are part of the measures being implemented while the investigation continues.
The governor emphasized that all inmates remain safe and said the stricter policies are intended to maintain peace, order and security inside the detention facility.
Authorities have not announced when the investigation will conclude or when regular visitation and other jail operations will resume. Provincial officials said the temporary measures will remain in effect as they continue addressing inmates’ concerns and reviewing the circumstances surrounding the unrest.
