Mandela Rules as well as the other important components of the rules for the treatment of prisoners. Below are the significant points raised during his discussion: • Atty. Sanchez explained that there are 5 basic principles of the Mandela Rule: Ø Treat prisoners with the respect due to their inherent dignity and value as human beings. Ø No prisoner shall be subjected to torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment. Ø The safety and security of prisoners, staff, service providers, and visitors shall be ensured at all times. Ø The Mandela Rules shall be applied impartially. There shall be no discrimination. Ø Ensure the reintegration of prisoners into society upon release. • The Mandela Rule also suggests that every facility must have a standardized prisoner file management system. It must have a valid commitment order; records are kept confidential; and prisoners must be able to access his/her records. • Other components of the rule which were given emphasis in the discussion are the rules related to accommodation, food, exercise and sport, health care services, discipline and sanction, and instruments of restraint. • Atty. Sanchez also emphasized that searches of prisoners and their cells must not be used to harass or intimidate or unnecessarily intrude the prisoner’s privacy. He added, that intrusive searches (including strip and body cavity searches) should be undertaken only if absolutely necessary • In terms of dealing with information and complaints, the Mandela Rules stipulates that prisoners must be informed of the prison law, regulations, and their rights and obligations. Prisoners may also make requests or complaints to the prison director or staff member authorized to represent him/her. Furthermore, every prisoner is allowed to make requests or complaints regarding his/her treatment, without censorship as to substance, to the central prison administration and to the judicial or other competent authorities • Lastly, Atty Sanchez explained that are allowed to have contact with the outside world. They must be allowed conjugal visits, and be informed regularly of the important items of the news. He also emphasized that the mandela rules guarantees the prisoners’ rights to practice his/her own religion. IX. Bankok Rules 27