BJMP Tacloban Stops Another Attempt to Bring Drugs into Jail

Posted on July 4, 2026 at 7:23 am

TACLOBAN CITY — Personnel of the BJMP Tacloban City Jail intercepted another attempt to smuggle illegal drugs into the facility after a package containing suspected shabu, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia was thrown over the jail’s perimeter fence early June 30 morning.

The package was discovered at around 5:10 a.m. on June 30, 2026, during a routine security inspection and perimeter check conducted by jail personnel.

Authorities recovered about 15 grams of suspected shabu, around 10 grams of dried marijuana leaves, three bottles of acetone, and strips of aluminum foil. The items were immediately secured for inventory, documentation, and laboratory examination.

Jail Warden JCINSP Benedicto Ramirez Jr. said the contraband did not come from inside the jail. Initial findings indicate that it was thrown into the compound from outside the facility, particularly from an area adjacent to the perimeter fence.

“We do not agree with claims that the drugs came from inside the jail. Based on our assessment, the package was thrown into the compound from outside, particularly from the nearby area adjacent to the facility,” Ramirez said.

This is the second illegal drug delivery attempt this month. On June 12, jail personnel also intercepted a package containing approximately 6.9 grams of suspected shabu before it could reach any person deprived of liberty (PDL).

The repeated incidents have prompted jail authorities to tighten security measures, including stronger perimeter monitoring, regular inspections, intelligence gathering, and closer coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Philippine National Police (PNP).

As part of its efforts to keep the facility drug-free, the BJMP Tacloban City Jail recently conducted surprise drug testing on all jail personnel and 150 PDLs under its Drug-Free Workplace Program.

Authorities are now conducting a full investigation to identify those responsible for throwing the package into the jail compound and to determine whether any inmate was involved in coordinating the attempted delivery.

Ramirez also appealed to residents living near the jail to report any suspicious activity that could help identify those behind the smuggling attempts.

“Once we identify those responsible, whether they are individuals outside the jail or inmates involved in the scheme, we will file the appropriate criminal charges. We will not allow illegal drugs or any form of contraband to enter this controlled facility,” the warden said.

The latest incident underscores the continuing efforts of individuals outside the facility to smuggle illegal drugs into the jail. BJMP officials said they remain committed to maintaining a secure and drug-free environment through strict security measures and close coordination with law enforcement agencies.

Photo courtesy: Tacloban City Jail – Male Dormitory