BJMP investigates smuggled cellphone inside Negros jail

By Glazyl M. Jopson

The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology–Negros Island Region (BJMP-NIR) is investigating how a cellphone was smuggled into the Negros Occidental District Jail (NODJ) in Barangay Tabunan, Bago City, despite strict contraband policies.

Jail Senior Inspector Juniven Rey Umadhay, spokesperson for BJMP-NIR, confirmed that a viral video, allegedly recorded by a person deprived of liberty (PDL) during a protest on Thursday, sparked public concern.

The video, reportedly filmed inside the facility, shows a PDL claiming that jail personnel used tear gas against detainees during a protest to remove then–warden Jail Chief Inspector Crisyrel Awe.

PDLs accused Awe of mistreatment and opposed the stricter security protocols introduced under her leadership.

Umadhay emphasized that the presence of a cellphone used to record the video casts doubt on the protesters’ credibility.

“It’s brazen for them to use smartphones while complaining about mistreatment,” Umadhay said.

He clarified that, based on Awe’s explanation, some equipment was used to manage the unrest, allegedly in response to PDLs throwing stones at jail staff and vehicles outside the facility.

Awe did not confirm the specific equipment used, according to Umadhay.

He stressed that the use of any control measures must adhere to guidelines in operational manuals, which permit force only during emergencies or when necessary.

The identity of the individual who recorded or uploaded the video remains unknown.

Umadhay warned that if identified, the PDL involved could be disqualified from receiving good conduct time allowances.

He added that regular “greyhound operations,” or surprise inspections to confiscate contraband, are routinely conducted at NODJ.

In a recent operation two weeks ago, authorities recovered smartphones and improvised bladed weapons.

Umadhay said the presence of such items poses significant risks to jail personnel and other inmates, as they could be used for illicit activities.

He added that authorities are also looking into the possibility that contraband is being thrown over the fence or smuggled in with help from personnel.

“We are considering all factors to determine how the cellphone got inside the facility,” Umadhay said.

Following the protest, Awe voluntarily stepped down and was replaced by Jail Senior Inspector Raymond Aro, who also heads regional operations under the directive of BJMP-NIR Director Jail Chief Superintendent Brendan Fulgencio.

Umadhay clarified that Awe was not officially relieved, as the investigation into allegations against her is ongoing.

She is currently under the Regional Holding Unit pending the outcome of the investigation.

Before her assignment at NODJ, Awe served as jail warden of the Dumaguete City District Jail in Negros Oriental.

The BJMP regional office reiterated its openness to hearing concerns from PDLs, provided these are raised in good faith and with responsible conduct.

Security has been tightened at NODJ following a recent attempt on a jail officer’s life and an incident involving a gun being thrown into the jail premises.