In a move that redefines rehabilitation behind bars, the first-ever covered gymnasium inside a district jail in Western Visayas was formally turned over to the Barotac Viejo District Jail, giving persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) a dedicated space for sports, wellness, and personal reform.
Funded with over P5 million in government funds, the 15-by-25-meter covered facility features a rubberized floor and full basketball amenities, designed to serve more than 443 PDLs currently housed at the jail.
More than a sports venue, officials said the gym represents a concrete step toward humane detention and meaningful rehabilitation.
The turnover was led by 5th District Representative Binky April Tupas, alongside former congressman Raul “Boboy” Tupas, who originally conceptualized the construction of a covered gym within a custodial facility — a first for the region.
“This is not just about infrastructure. This is about dignity, discipline, and mental well-being,” Tupas said, stressing that improving detention facilities is central to preparing PDLs for reintegration into society.
“Amat-amat ginapanami naton ang mga pasilidad sang BJMP. Indi naton pagpabay-an ang aton mga PDLs. Ini ang amon panindugan sa serbisyo publiko,” she added.
BJMP officials described the facility as unprecedented in Western Visayas.
Jail Superintendent Atty. Jairus Anthony Dogelio, warden of the Barotac Viejo District Jail, expressed gratitude for what he called a long-overdue investment in rehabilitation.
“In my years of service, even in other regions, wala pa ako nakakita sang custodial facility nga may covered gym nga pareho sini,” Dogelio said.
“This gym will not only improve the physical and mental health of our PDLs, but will also serve as a venue for livelihood training, seminars, religious activities, and programs that truly promote change.”
Dogelio said the project sends a strong message that the government’s concern for PDLs is real, sustained, and felt on the ground, helping cultivate discipline, cooperation, and hope inside the jail.
The turnover ceremony was also attended by 5th District Board Member Nielito Tupas, Barotac Viejo Vice Mayor Vivian Buenavista representing Mayor Nielo Tupas, 3rd District Engineer Robert Palmer, BJMP Regional Director Jail Senior Superintendent Jhon Montero, and other local officials and stakeholders.
Former Barotac Viejo District Jail Warden Retired Jail Chief Inspector Val Gumaru said the facility stands as proof that effective public service thrives on unity and shared purpose.
“Patunay ito na ang totoong serbisyo publiko ay nag-ugat sa pagkakaisa kag pagtutulungan,” he said, noting that the project reflects the growing recognition of rehabilitation as a cornerstone of justice.
With the opening of the covered gym, Barotac Viejo District Jail sets a new benchmark for custodial facilities, underscoring a shift from mere confinement toward correction with compassion — where reform begins not only with rules, but with opportunities for growth.IMT
