CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) – To strengthen the government’s rehabilitation and reintegration efforts for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP)-10 conducted a series of socio-cultural activities to celebrate the National Correctional Consciousness Week (NACOCOW) from October 21 to 27 with the theme “Makataong Pakikitungo, Matinong Pamumuno at Matatag na Prinsipyo Tungo sa Maunlad na Serbisyong Pampiitan.”
It aimed to promote PDLs’ welfare while offering chances to develop and showcase their talents and skills.
NACOCOW is BJMP’s annual celebration established by the late President Fidel V. Ramos in 1995 under Proclamation No. 551, aimed to raise awareness on the needs of prisoners, detainees, probationers, and parolees; promote re-socialization so inmates can eventually reintegrate into communities; recognize the dignity of prisoners; and guarantee respect for their human rights.
The week-long celebration kicked off on October 21 with a motorcade and the installation of tarps, followed by activities that included a sports fest featuring chess, badminton, and other athletic events organized within the jail facility.
BJMP-10 also hosted live online selling through its social media platforms, where the public could buy handcrafted products of PDLs.
The Mister and Miss NACOCOW 2024 pageant, which fostered a sense of community and self-expression among PDLs, highlighted the week’s vibrant jubilee. The pageant is part of the broader NACOCOW program emphasizing socio-cultural development, talent enhancement, and community engagement.
PDLs also participated in other contests, such as a songwriting challenge, painting, and handicraft-making. Winners received cash prizes to acknowledge their contributions.
“Despite being temporarily incarcerated, our brothers and sisters still have opportunities to enhance their welfare, strengthen family relationships, and promote personal development,” said BJMP-Cagayan de Oro City Male Dormitory Community Relations Officer J/INSP Brit D. Aguilon.
To expand BJMP’s rehabilitation programs for PDLs, the agency signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with various service providers. These providers are essential for rehabilitation, collaborating closely with jail facilities to deliver vital services that aid PDLs’ reintegration into society.
“Although PDLs face temporary incarceration, they are valued members of society. Cagayan de Oro City Jail’s programs emphasized that these individuals are valued and not forgotten. They receive opportunities to grow, develop, and create a better future,” Aguilon said.
BJMP’s initiatives focus on rehabilitating PDLs and fostering community involvement. The facility remains dedicated to showcasing resident talents, equipping and preparing them for successful reintegration into the community. (JAKA/PIA-10)
