MANILA — Prison officials clarified that there is no scabies outbreak at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa or in any other operating prison and penal farm nationwide, the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) said.

In a news release, BuCor CT/Supt. Ma Cecilia V. Villanueva, acting director for Health and Welfare Services, said the last recorded scabies outbreak in their facilities occurred two years ago, prompting the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), in partnership with BuCor, to conduct the “alis galis” activity.

Villanueva’s statement came after a non-governmental organization raised concerns about a possible outbreak, citing severe overcrowding and water shortages at the NBP. The group also alleged difficulties in coordinating with BuCor and NBP regarding their humanitarian request.

BuCor highlighted protocols for bringing medicines into correctional facilities to ensure accountability, safety, and the prevention of contraband. These include surrendering medications to security personnel, providing an itemized list with proper labeling, presenting a valid doctor’s prescription, and dispensing only under supervision by medical officers or pharmacists.

The bureau assured the public and families of persons deprived of liberty that it is capable of responding effectively to any health-related issues in correctional facilities.