In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call to serve justice with compassion, more than 10,000 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) nationwide have successfully completed elementary, high school, and college education through government-led programs.
This second chance at a better future is made possible by the intensified implementation of the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Alternative Learning System (ALS) in detention facilities across the country.
Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the program reflects the administration’s commitment to rehabilitation and reintegration, proving that even while serving time, PDLs can remain productive and gain a second chance at life through education and skills development.
“Alinsunod sa panawagan ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. na itaguyod ang hustisya at kalinga, 10,739 na persons deprived of liberty o mga taong nakapiit ang nakapagtapos ng elementary at high school sa ilalim ng Alternative Learning System ng Department of Education,” Castro said in a Palace briefing on Wednesday.
ALS is a parallel learning system that offers educational opportunities for out-of-school youth and adults (OSYAs) who are unable to attend regular schooling. It allows individuals to develop basic literacy skills and complete their education through formal and non-formal learning methods.
Moreover, 107 PDLs earned college degrees through the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology’s (BJMP) Tertiary Education Behind Bars Program, in collaboration with the Commission on Higher Education. Another 720 PDLs are currently enrolled in various degree programs.
“Pinalalawak pa ito ng Bureau of Jail Management and Penology o BJMP sa pamamagitan ng pakikipagtulungan sa iba’t-ibang kolehiyo at unibersidad,” Castro said.
Castro said in recognition of their dedication and efforts, PDLs were granted time allowances for studying, teaching, and mentoring, as provided under the Revised Penal Code or Republic Act 10592.
Aside from academic education, the government is providing technical and livelihood skills training to help PDLs prepare for reintegration into society.
Castro said 112,707 PDLs have undergone training in carpentry, electronics, welding, arts and crafts, and small-scale entrepreneurship through the help of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and civil society groups.
“Ang buhay ay mahalaga. Ang mga naligaw ng landas noon ay maaari pang bigyan ng pag-asa ngayon. Kaya paigtingin pa ang ‘huli hindi patay’ sa mga operasyon,” Castro said. | PND
