MAASIN CITY (PIA) — A total of 39 individuals being held at the provincial jail in this city for various offenses were treated to a modest Christmas meal on Friday, December 1, courtesy of a feeding program initiated by the Communicators Network (ComNet)
In collaboration with a popular fast food chain, each inmate, now referred to as persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), enjoyed a serving of burger steak meal, which was also served to jail officers and personnel, guests, visitors, and journalists who covered the activity.
ComNet is a group of information officers from the national government agencies and local government units that was organized by the Philippine Information Agency – Southern Leyte early this year.
The feeding program for PDLs was the very first outreach project conducted by the ComNet.
In his inspirational talk during the short program, Engr. Cirilo Maningo, president of Volunteer Probation Assistant of the Parole and Probation Office, encouraged the jail residents to never lose hope.
Maningo, a former Punong Barangay of Mambajao, stressed that there is still life after serving time inside the jail compound, especially if they can avail the privilege of probation that a number of them had applied.
Jail officer Jose Isog expressed gratitude to the ComNet for sponsoring a feeding activity, coming as it was on the first day of December, an early Christmas treat.
Jason Calva, provincial administrator who also served as the jail warden officer-in-charge, likewise thanked the info officers group for the opportunity, saying activities organized by people from outside certainly boosts the PDLs’ morale, for being still a part of the community.
Calva announced that on December 22, the provincial government scheduled a Family Day where the PDLs can have fun along with their families, sending big smiles to the audience wearing orange shirts.
During the program, some PDLs showcased their talents in singing and dancing, and when it’s time to listen to their impression, three of their representatives expressed remorse and a desire to change their life for the better, as they thanked the ComNet for the free lunch.
They also showed their peanut butter products which they sell at P80 per jar. (LDL/MMP/PIA Southern Leyte)
