TANZA, Cavite (PIA) – The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) said Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) here can look forward to a skills training program that they can use when they return to their communities.
Jail chief Inspector Harry Ballon, BJMP Tanza officer-in-Charge, said negotiations are ongoing with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on possible courses to be offered.
He added that the program will be very beneficial for PDLs who want to upgrade their skills.
"This is still a proposal. If the program materializes, it will be a huge help for PDLs. They will have skills that they can use outside," Ballon clarified.
The BJMP will provide a venue inside the Tanza Municipal Jail for the skills training.
"Teachers and instructors will come to our jail. We will supervise security and provide assistance to our instructors," Ballon said.
The project is part of the BJMP’s aftercare program, which seeks to provide welfare and developmental programs to PDLs. It includes livelihood and education programs that will provide PDLs with certifications that they can use for job-hunting or setting up a business when they return to their communities.
The program also provides referrals to community resources, local government units, non-government organizations, and the business sector to facilitate employment and livelihood assistance, educational/vocational training, scholarships, and medical and psychological interventions.
"Due to lack of education, many of our fellow citizens end up in the fringes of society. Some lose their way and end up in jail. That's why one of BJMP's programs is to provide services that will help them reintegrate into the community," the jail official explained.
BJMP Tanza currently offers various skills training, including painting and handicrafts which provide PDLs a source of income while in jail.
"All programs are intended to equip them to return to the community. They are ready to face their responsibilities again because we have provided education, skills, and imparted moral values." (PB/PIA-4A; with reports from BJMP Tanza)
