San jose de buenavista: The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is set to provide a PHP1.29-million shared service facility (SSF) dedicated to food processing, aimed at bolstering the livelihood training of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) in Antique.

According to Philippines News Agency, this initiative was formalized through an agreement signing at the Anstec Building in San Jose de Buenavista. The signing ceremony included DTI Antique acting Provincial Director Mary Jade Gonzales, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Regional Director Senior Supt. Jhon Montero, and Schools Division of Antique Superintendent Ernesto Servillion, represented by Education Program Specialist Jezreel Bantolo.

Gonzales emphasized that the SSF will support 25 PDLs currently enrolled in the Alternative Learning System. The facility will equip the BJMP with necessary tools for producing food items such as chorizo and tocino. The equipment list includes a meat mixer, meat slicer, electric fried pot, fryer, sausage tying machine, and sliding glass steel cabinet, among other items.

The BJMP is also contributing approximately PHP675,000 for raw materials, facility enhancements, and additional equipment. Gonzales highlighted that despite being incarcerated, PDLs have the opportunity to earn income, with processed foods being sold by family members outside the jail.

Montero expressed optimism about PDLs utilizing their skills and generating income post-incarceration. He encouraged them to make the most of the SSF and prepare for reintegration into society.

The San Pedro National High School will conduct the training as a component of the Alternative Learning System program for Grades 11 and 12.