Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” C. Remulla hailed Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Director General Gregorio Catapang, Jr. for his expeditious response to reported complaints lodged by the spouses of certain political prisoners who allegedly experienced inappropriate/humiliating strip searches at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City.

This as seven (7) prison personnel were immediately relieved from their functions and are now in “floating status” pending the result of the agency’s formal investigation into the issue.

The controversy stemmed from complaints reportedly lodged before the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) against certain jail guards at the NBP for allegedly subjecting wives of some political prisoners, including a senior citizen, to degrading and traumatizing strip/physical searches in an attempt to prevent the entry of illegal contrabands.

“The lightning swift action of Director General Catapang on urgent matters like these perfectly display his raging resolve as a public servant to enforce what is within the boundaries of our legal system,” said the Secretary.

“This country’s Corrections system needs more people like DG Catapang,” Remulla said.

Aside from administrative charges, criminal cases may also be filed against the 7 prison personnel involved if proven they went beyond their authority and functions.