The Dagupan City Jail Male Dormitory in Pangasinan offers a beacon of hope for inmates through its "Bayong Hiraya" livelihood program. 

"Bayong Hiraya," which translates to "bag of hope," empowers persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) with a sense of purpose and dignity by allowing them to create beautiful, handcrafted bags.

The initiative began in 2023 with a skills enhancement program led by a skilled bayong producer. 

This program equips PDLs with valuable economic knowledge that will benefit them upon release. 

Currently, two PDLs actively participate in crafting these unique bayongs, finding fulfillment and a sense of accomplishment within the correctional facility.

“Finding the materials we need to purchase has been challenging. We look for service providers, but if we can’t find any, the jail provides the materials needed,” Jail Officer I Modecel Ramos said in an interview with the Philippine Information Agency.

Unlike traditional bayongs used for market purchases, Bayong Hiraya offers a modern twist. 

“Our Bayong Hiraya mainly uses hard plastic straps. It is crucial to be very careful during crafting because the work is detailed, and mistakes cannot be made to make sure it lasts,” she added.

For an extra touch of elegance, wooden handles and ribbons are incorporated into the design.

These embellishments are either purchased locally or ordered online.

Creating a single Bayong Hiraya takes between two and four hours, excluding the time spent on additional decorations. 

The size of the bag also affects the production time.

Initially, marketing was done within the jail facility itself. 

Staff introduced the bags to visitors and offered pre-orders and customization options through Facebook.

The program's success grew organically as others expressed interest in promoting and selling the Bayong Hiraya in their stores. 

You can now find these beautiful bags at Bigbites n' Brews Coffee Shop on Gonzales Street, Bonuan-Boquig, Dagupan City.

“Also, during our outreach programs, we would set up a booth to promote and sell Bayong Hiraya along with other livelihood products to individuals who showed interest,” Ramos shared, adding that the price varies depending on the size and design.

Featuring wallets, pouches, sling bags, and handbags, each meticulously crafted with prices starting from P100 up to P1,000. 

The positive response has been overwhelming. 

“Once people heard that the Bayong Hiraya are crafted by PDLs, they no longer question the price but rather they purchase them promptly, valuing the story behind each product,” she said.

On behalf of the Dagupan City Jail Male Dormitory, Jail Officer Ramos expresses sincere gratitude to all who support and advocate for these PDL-made products. 

She also encourages other PDLs to participate in the “Bayong Hiraya” program, highlighting the importance of skill development for a secure future.

“It is not just for your benefit, it is also for your families. This ensures that when you are released from jail, you have a means of livelihood, allowing you to better support yourselves and your families,” she said. 

To inquire or place an order, simply reach out to Jail Officer II Joyce De Guzman or Jail Officer I Ramos at the Dagupan City Jail Male Dormitory, or connect with them directly at 0991-550-4848 or visit their Facebook page at RI-Dagupan Cjmd (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556677931151&mibextid=ZbWKwL). (JCR/AMB/JCDR/PIA Pangasinan)