The situation at the Pasay detention center is getting worse. Two POGO workers – one Chinese and one from Myanmar – died due to complications from HIV and respiratory illness. They were among those arrested by the PAOCC for working illegally in the country.
The total number of detainees in the said facility, which was previously a POGO hub, is 640. But because it is full, nearly 300 have fallen ill recently due to the outbreak. According to PAOCC Chief Gilbert Cruz, operations to catch illegal workers have been temporarily suspended due to lack of space and health risks.
The government spends up to P2 million per month for food and medical treatment for the detainees. Most of them have HIV and hepatitis B, according to PAOCC Spokesperson Ernesto Tendero. There are weekly check-ups from doctors and nurses in the area.
There are still 9,000 former POGO workers who have not been caught and may be running new illegal businesses. According to Cruz, the deportation process is slow, which is why those caught remain in detention for a long time.
Some detainees have already filed a petition against the PAOCC due to the conditions of their detention. Issues with the Bureau of Immigration are also being addressed, especially with allegations of favoritism in the release of some POGO detainees.
