Romblon: Twenty-five persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Romblon District Jail graduated from the Masonry NC II training program on Monday, highlighting ongoing efforts to strengthen rehabilitation and reintegration initiatives through technical and vocational education.
According to Philippines News Agency, the graduation ceremony was held through a partnership between the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), aimed at equipping PDLs with employable skills to improve their opportunities upon reintegration into society.
The training program equipped participants with masonry-related technical competencies while promoting discipline, self-improvement, and personal development among graduates.
In his message, TESDA 4-B (Mimaropa) Director Baron Jose Lagran underscored the role of technical education in transforming lives and opening opportunities for individuals seeking a fresh start. He encouraged the graduates to maximize their newly acquired skills and use them as a foundation for productive and meaningful lives after their release.
Meanwhile, TESDA-Romblon Director III Glenn Ni±o Sartillo highlighted the importance of accessible skills training and sustained support systems in successful rehabilitation efforts. 'Rehabilitation becomes more meaningful when individuals are given opportunities to learn, improve, and prepare themselves for life beyond incarceration,' Sartillo said.
Jail Senior Insp. Emely Malen, district jail warden, thanked TESDA and partner stakeholders for their continued support in implementing skills development initiatives inside jail facilities. 'Programs like this provide our PDL opportunities to rebuild their lives through learning, discipline, and skills development. These interventions encourage positive change and empower them to become productive members of society,' Malen said.
BJMP Mimaropa spokesperson Jail Officer 3 Joefrie Anglo said the graduation reflects the agency's continuing commitment to restorative and transformation-centered interventions for persons under custody. 'Rehabilitation is not only about confinement but also about transformation. Through education, compassion, and opportunities for growth, we help persons deprived of liberty rebuild their lives and prepare for a more productive future,' Anglo said.
The BJMP said skills development initiatives remain among its key rehabilitation strategies as the agency continues to strengthen partnerships that promote livelihood opportunities, self-reliance, and community reintegration for persons deprived of liberty.
