Odiongan: In a significant boost to their rehabilitation journey, 12 Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) have graduated from the Department of Education's Alternative Learning System (ALS) here. The solemn event took place at the historic Gabaldon Building of Odiongan South Central Elementary School (OSCES) on Monday.
According to Philippines News Agency, five of the graduates successfully passed the Junior High School Accreditation and Equivalency Test, while the remaining seven completed the elementary-level ALS program. Anchored by the theme 'Henerasyon ng Pagkakaisa: Kaagapay sa Bagong Pilipinas (Generation of Unity: Partnering with New Philippines),' the ceremony underscored the vital role of unity in realizing the nation's collective vision-a narrative resonant throughout MIMAROPA's broader Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) ALS initiatives earlier this year.
'Education is a beacon of hope even within these walls,' affirmed Jail Senior Inspector Dante Montilla, Acting District Warden, during his address. 'This journey enables our PDLs to rebuild their lives with dignity, purpose, and unity.' The convocation featured the distribution of diplomas and completion certificates-marking a vital step toward rehabilitation and community reintegration.
Local educators joined jail officials in celebrating the dedication and perseverance of the graduates. BJMP Mimaropa Regional Information Officer Jail Officer 3 Joefrie Anglo shared his deep pride in the achievement. 'We are immensely proud of these graduates. Their journey underscores the power of education to uplift and transform lives, even within the confines of our facilities,' Anglo said, as quoted in a news release on Tuesday.
'The BJMP remains steadfast in its mission to provide learning opportunities that pave the way for genuine rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society.' Looking ahead, Anglo emphasized the bureau's commitment to expanding ALS initiatives throughout the region. 'Every diploma earned behind bars represents hope, healing, and the promise of a brighter future,' he said.
