About 7,453 Muslim persons deprived of liberties (PDLs) yesterday celebrated the annual festival, Eid al-Fitr, known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast” nationwide. (Photo courtesy of BJMP)
BJMP joins Muslim PDLs celebrate Eid al-Fitr
THE Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) has assured continuous support to the more than 7,000 Muslim persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) with regards to their religious activities as it joins the entire (Muslim) community in celebrating Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan across its facilities nationwide.
BJMP under the leadership of Jail Director Ruel Rivera, remains committed to upholding the cultural and religious rights of PDLs through inclusive programs that foster spiritual growth, rehabilitation, and reintegration into society.
Eid al-Fitr, known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is a significant event in Islam, symbolizing spiritual renewal and communal unity.
For Muslim PDLs, observing this occasion behind bars provides a deep sense of connection to their faith and community, reinforcing their journey toward rehabilitation.
Presently, the BJMP houses 7,453 Muslim detainees across its facilities, supported by 611 Muslim personnel who help facilitate religious activities and ensure cultural sensitivity in jail management.
In supporting their spiritual needs, the jail bureau vowed to ensure the provision of iftar – the evening meal that breaks the fast, throughout the entire Ramadan.
Jails with significant Muslim populations were equipped with mosques or designated prayer areas to accommodate religious practices.
At Manila City Jail-Male Dormitory, 280 Muslim PDLs have a dedicated space for worship in the mosque located inside the facility.
The jail allows for daily prayers, religious studies, and spiritual gatherings, reinforcing faith-based rehabilitation.
At Iligan City Jail-Male Dormitory, 98 Muslim PDLs marked Eid al-Fitr with Salat al-Eid, a morning prayer, followed by a festive meal of fried chicken and beef rendang, generously donated to the facility.
This year, 157 Muslim PDLs, or 99.37 percent of the facility’s population at Marawi City Jail, observed Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr for the first time in their new facility.
The modernized jail allowed for better religious observance, providing improved spaces for prayer and communal activities.
BJMP jails ensured that throughout Ramadan, Muslim PDLs were able to observe Salat al-Tarawih (evening prayers) in designated areas. Even beyond Ramadan, these spaces remain available for Salat al-Isha (evening prayers) and Salat al-Jumu’ah (Friday noon prayers).
