CAMIGUIN (PIA)–In a remarkable display of dedication and resilience, 17 inmates of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Camiguin took part in a Skills Enhancement Training on Hollow Block Making, which was organized by the Camiguin School of Arts and Trades (CSAT) in collaboration with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Camiguin Provincial Office, September 18.
The training session aimed to empower incarcerated individuals with valuable skills and encourage personal growth. Karol Sanggomay Ranalan, the administrator of CSAT, commended the inmates for their commitment to learning this craft.
She expressed her admiration, saying, “I want to take this moment to praise sa inyong dedikasyon ug kalig-on sa kagustuhan ninyo mukat-on aning skills training in hollow block making. So amo gyud ning gidali-dali pagpa-approve para ninyo, para maka-serve mi sa inyoha [I want to take this moment to praise your dedication and strength in wanting to learn this skill in hollow block making. So we sped up the approval of this activity so that we could serve you].”
Ranalan emphasized that the hollow blocks produced during the training would be more than mere building materials. Each block symbolized the strength and determination of the individuals involved. “Ang matag bloke nga inyong gihulma usa ka testamento sa inyong determinasyon nga magtukod og mas hayag nga kaugmaon [each block you shape is a testament to your determination to build a brighter future],” she added.
Beyond the technical skills, CSAT aimed to instill qualities like patience, cooperation, and perseverance in the beneficiaries. These attributes are seen as valuable tools that will not only enhance their craftsmanship but also serve them well in their lives after incarceration.
One of the beneficiaries, known as Jay, 52, shared his thoughts on the training. He highlighted the significance of the activity in fostering bonds and encouraging participation among people deprived of liberty.
“Dako siya’g matabang kasi, actually dili ko type mag-construction, so diri ko lang nakuha. Di ka lang basta mag-mix kasi ang hollow block making, dili lang siya basta mahimo ng wala kaming katabang so kailangan duha mo so nandun ‘yung partnership [It is a big help, and actually, I don’t really like construction, and I just got the learning here. You just don’t mix anything in hollow block making; you can’t make one without help; a partnership is needed],” said Jay.
The Skills Enhancement Training on hollow block making not only equips inmates with valuable vocational skills but also reinforces the importance of resilience, determination, and cooperation in their journey toward rehabilitation and reintegration into society. The Camiguin School of Arts and Trades, along with TESDA, continues to make strides in providing opportunities for personal and professional development for all, regardless of their circumstances. (RTP/PIA-10/Camiguin)
The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Camiguin took part in a Skills Enhancement Training on Hollow Block Making, which was organized by the Camiguin School of Arts and Trades in collaboration with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Camiguin Provincial Office, September 18, 2023. (James M. Elaco/PIA-10/Camiguin)
An inmate of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Camiguin learn the craft of making hollow blocks under the supervision of the Camiguin School of Arts and Trades, September 18, 2023. (James M. Elaco/PIA-10/Camiguin)