In a world where physical barriers often limit freedom, the indomitable human spirit finds a way to transcend. Some nine Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) from various district and city jails in Eastern Visayas embarked on a personal journey of liberation through their artistic talents.
They participated in the first regional “BIDA” painting, craft making, and a songwriting challenge organized by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).
The initiative aligns with the DILG’s Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan (BIDA), which aims to combat the illegal use of prohibited drugs while promoting human rights through art and creativity.
“We would like to ensure that our person deprived of liberty will be coming out of prison with other skills that they were able to develop or hone while in prison,” DILG Regional Director Arnel M. Agabe said, underlining the transformative power of art.
Painting of hope
The painting “Flight of Hope” from Isabel District Jail portrays a beautiful scene of a free bird stretching its wings, serving as a powerful symbol of freedom. This contrasts the confined life of a person deprived of liberty in a cell.
The “Bukang Liwaywayway” painting in the Male Dormitory of Tacloban City Jail depicts the concept of hope and second chances, represented by a blooming lotus flower at sunrise.
The Female Dormitory of Tacloban City Jail features “Halimuyak ng Hiraya,” a poignant artwork that tells the inspiring story of a woman who has blossomed despite enduring significant losses, disappointments, and burdens.
Crafting a future
The wooden Lamp Shade from Carigara District Jail is truly a work of art. Meticulously molded from a fine wood sheet of Lawaan and Narra, it features wooden tiles that combine to create a unique pentagonal design. Its intricate craftsmanship and natural beauty make it a stunning addition to any room.
The Travel Bag from Naval District Jail differs from your average travel companion. Spacious, with a zipper closure and inner clothing piece for added durability, this bag is designed to last. Its construction from colored plastic rattans woven into intricate patterns makes it eye-catching and practical for all your adventures.
The stunning recycled wooden bottle peacock from Maasin City Jail is made from a repurposed wine bottle painted with an array of vibrant colors, creating the illusion of a majestic peacock in full display. With various parts crafted from metal, carved wood, and cardboard covered in glitter, this peacock truly shines like no other. It’s a unique and wine-friendly addition to any décor.
Voices in harmony
The male inmates from the Tacloban City Jail dormitory showcased their musical talents with a heartfelt serenade titled “Magbabago pa ba?” Meanwhile, the inmates from Sogod District Jail presented “Kapatid kong Kaibigan,” and those from Catbalogan City District Jail performed “Kaibigan iyong isipin,” all delivering powerful messages of hope and second chances through their heartfelt singing.
“You have turned your circumstances into opportunities for growth and advocacy,” BJMP Regional Director Bernardo Sanchez said, highlighting their skills, talents, and creativity that can lead them to new beginnings and more significant opportunities in life.
The winners were awarded P15,000 cash prizes, which will be given to their families or beneficiaries. The regional winners will proceed to compete in the national arena.
Creative activities such as painting, handicraft-making, and songwriting have been utilized as a means of rehabilitation for PDLs. These activities are believed to support personal growth and community reintegration, offering opportunities for individuals to redefine their identities and make positive contributions to society. (AAC, PIA Leyte with reports from PIA interns Alexis Jane Quesada and Giselle Sevillana)
