The BJMP–Mandaue Male Dormitory in Barangay Basak continues to struggle with flooding and water stagnation, especially during high tide and heavy rains.
City Jail Warden Jail Superintendent Jessie James Gingoyon said the facility’s location on reclaimed land at sea level makes it prone to seawater intrusion and poor drainage.
Plans are underway to upgrade the dormitory’s drainage system and install a sewerage treatment facility. Gingoyon noted that Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano and Congresswoman Emmarie “Lollypop” Ouano-Dizon have committed support, including the construction of an embankment to prevent flooding.
“Hopefully, this will be addressed in 2026,” he said.
BJMP officials are coordinating with the local government unit, which is working to improve water discharge to prevent flooding during high tide and heavy rainfall.
Despite the stagnation, floodwaters do not reach the cells of persons deprived of liberty, Gingoyon assured.
“The main problem is seawater because the area is reclaimed, causing water to rise and stagnate,” he said.
Aside from flooding, the dormitory faces challenges with its access road, which remains partly unpaved and muddy.
The road had been privately owned for more than nine years, limiting government intervention.
Under the Ouano administration, the owners agreed to donate the road to the city, with documents still pending finalization.
Once completed, the road will be developed to improve accessibility and safety, especially during emergencies.
Ouano visited the facility last December and assured that development of the access road would be prioritized in 2026.
Gingoyon stressed that the poor road conditions pose risks to personnel, visitors, and motorcycle riders, particularly in urgent situations or adverse weather. (VCL)
