The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Monday reiterated that all individuals detained under the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), including former Anakalusugan Party-list Representative Mike Defensor and businessman Joseph Espiritu, will be treated equally under existing laws and jail regulations.
In a statement, the department stressed that all persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) are subject to the same legal standards and custodial procedures.
“The DILG reiterates that all persons committed to BJMP custody are treated in accordance with the law and established custodial procedures.”
The agency also emphasized that no detainee will receive preferential treatment while in BJMP custody.
“As affirmed by the BJMP, no special treatment will be extended to any PDL under its custody. The Department remains committed to ensuring the impartial and professional enforcement of the law.”
Defensor and Espiritu were transferred to the Quezon City Jail–Male Dormitory after being arrested by the Philippine National Police (PNP) on warrants issued by the Sandiganbayan in connection with a non-bailable plunder case.
The DILG confirmed the details of their admission into BJMP custody.
“The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) confirms that, based on the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), former Congressman Mike Defensor and businessman Joseph Espiritu were committed to the custody of the Quezon City Jail-Male Dormitory at 3:58 p.m. today, July 6, 2026, pursuant to a commitment order issued by the Sandiganbayan Third Division in connection with their non-bailable plunder case.”
The department also disclosed that businessman Aristotle Viray was taken into custody as a co-accused in a separate non-bailable plunder case involving Senator Rodante Marcoleta over the alleged non-disclosure of ₱75 million in campaign donations.
According to the BJMP, Defensor and Espiritu underwent the agency’s standard admission procedures before being assigned to the regular jail population.
“The BJMP further confirmed that both persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) have completed standard custodial processing and have been integrated into the general PDL population.”