Inside the World's Toughest Prisons Season 1 Episode 3 Episode 3

Inside the World's Toughest Prisons is a gripping documentary series that provides a detailed look at some of the toughest prisons in the world. This episode, titled Episode 3, delves into the harsh realities of life inside a prison in the Philippines.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to the New Bilibid Prison, which is located in Manila, the capital city of the Philippines. With a staggering population of over 28,000 inmates, this prison is notorious for its overcrowding, violence, and corruption. The episode follows host and journalist Raphael Rowe as he enters the prison and meets some of the inmates who call it home.

Rowe's first stop is the maximum-security wing of the prison, where he meets a group of inmates who have been sentenced to life in prison. These men are housed in cramped and filthy cells and spend their days in constant fear of violence from other inmates and prison guards. Rowe speaks to them about the conditions inside the prison and the difficulties they face living with so many others in such a small space.

Next, Rowe is taken to the general population area of the prison, where he meets a group of inmates who have formed a musical group called The Jailbirds. These men use music as a way to cope with the hardships of prison life and to express their emotions. In a touching moment, Rowe watches as the group performs a song they wrote about the struggles of life in the New Bilibid Prison.

Throughout the episode, Rowe also explores the underground economy that exists within the prison. He meets with inmates who have become skilled craftsmen and entrepreneurs, using their talents to create goods that can be sold to other inmates or even to the outside world. However, this economy is not without its dangers, as many inmates are forced to pay bribes to guards or other inmates to ensure their safety.

Rowe also takes a closer look at the role of religion within the prison, meeting with both Catholic and Muslim chaplains who work to provide spiritual guidance to the inmates. He witnesses a Catholic mass and a Muslim prayer service and speaks with the chaplains about the importance of faith in helping inmates cope with the difficulties of prison life.

The episode ends with Rowe reflecting on his experience inside the New Bilibid Prison and the many challenges faced by both inmates and staff. He notes that while the conditions inside the prison are far from ideal, there are still moments of hope and humanity to be found amidst the darkness.

Overall, Episode 3 of Inside the World's Toughest Prisons is a fascinating and eye-opening look at one of the most challenging prisons in the world. Through Raphael Rowe's interviews with inmates and staff, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the struggles and complexities of life inside the New Bilibid Prison.