People Surge says corrupt officials deserve jail time in overcrowded prisons, not new facilities

The civic organization People Surge denounced the government's plan to house officials linked to the recent flood control scandal in the newly built Quezon City Jail.

People Surge's spokesperson emphasized that keeping corrupt officials in older, overcrowded jails would send a stronger message about accountability, instead of providing them with comfort or access to privileges that could lead to further abuse. "Gumawa pa sila ng kulungan, samantala 'yong mga matatagal nang nakakulong, siksikan para silang sardinas. Samantalang ito, gusto nila maging maalwang ang kanilang buhay hanggang sa loob ng kulungan. Mahiya naman sila sa taong bayan. Mahiya naman sila nagbabayad ng buwis," Doringo told reporters.

The group stressed that the matter goes beyond the billions allegedly stolen from public funds. It also involves seeking justice for the lives lost because of neglected or insufficient public services. The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), together with the Independent Commission for Infrastructure, inspected the new Quezon City Jail, which is intended to accommodate government officials with salary grades 27 and above.

In addition, the Pasig City Jail has been designated to hold government officials with salary grades 26 and below, including district engineers from the Department of Public Works and Highways.

People Surge emphasized the importance of equal treatment in detention, pointing out that ordinary inmates often endure harsher conditions despite legal protections, while wealthy or well-connected individuals tend to experience more favorable circumstances.