Court urges agencies, lawmakers to address QC jail capacity needs

MANILA—The Sandiganbayan Third Division has directed attention to critical resource gaps at the New Quezon City Jail in Barangay Payatas, citing the need for upgraded equipment and sufficient staffing levels at the detention facility.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the court indicated that copies of its September 14 order authorizing Romualdez's transfer to the jail have been forwarded to relevant government agencies and lawmakers to underscore the facility's operational requirements.

Former Speaker Romualdez, who faces multiple cases before the anti-graft court, was transferred to the newly constructed Quezon City facility as part of efforts to manage the Bureau of Corrections' overcrowding issues.

The court's move signals concerns about whether the jail is adequately equipped to handle high-profile detainees and maintain proper detention standards. Officials have been urged to assess and address infrastructure, security, and personnel needs at the facility to ensure compliance with detention protocols.

The call comes as the Philippine justice system continues grappling with overcrowding and resource constraints at various detention facilities nationwide.