MANOLO FORTICH, Bukidnon (PIA)—A group of local government unit (LGU) workers from Manolo Fortich visited its district jail, December 22, for a gift-giving activity with 192 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs).

Employees delivered snacks and hygiene kits to the PDLs, who were overjoyed to receive the gifts during the holiday season.

"Lando," one of the beneficiaries, expressed his gratitude by saying, "Thank you so much to the employees of the local government for showing us your love and generosity. These gifts are so meaningful to us and we are hoping that your love and kindness, especially to the needy, will continue and foster."

The jail warden, Chief Inspector Arnel S. Nacasabog, also thanked employees for their efforts and generosity. He explained that Municipal Local Government Operations Officer Cherry Lou B. Lafuente came up with the idea for the Christmas Wish Tree, which allowed PDLs to express their wishes.

Lafuente, who led the gift-giving activity, shared her thoughts on the employees’ efforts.

"We came up with the idea of sharing our blessings as more than just a gratification of the graces that we received. We at the DILG, along with the employees of the MPDO, LDRRMO, MIO, MNAO, the Manolo Fortich PNP, and those who voluntarily shared their blessings, made these things possible," she said. 

She added that instead of throwing a party, they thought it would be better to share their blessings with the PDLs because they know that the sector is underserved. Thus, they want to share their blessings in any way they can. (Manolo Fortich LGU/PIA-10/Bukidnon)