CITY OF TABUK, Kalinga (PIA) — Learning is a productive way for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) to spend their time in jail and helps them find gainful employment upon release, thereby decreasing the likelihood of their return to criminal activities.
In a significant step to further the development and rehabilitation of PDLs, the Kalinga District Jail (BJMP-Kalinga) partnered with the Kalinga State University (KSU) and the Tabuk City National High School (TCNHS) to give educational opportunities to PDLs.
“[We want] to give them a chance nga makapalpas ti eskwela tapnu kasta ket nu rumwar da, maging productive da and tapnu ada chance da nga ma-employ,” said Jail Senior Inspector Noel G. Dulnuan, BJMP-Kalinga Acting Jail Warden.
The jail facility is collaborating with KSU for the College Education Behind Bars or CEBB program, under which PDLs are given a chance to earn a degree in their program of choice.
Twelve PDLs have so far expressed interest in the program and are currently undergoing the process to assess their eligibility for the program. Some are looking forward to continue the courses they were taking before being jailed while others are aspiring to start college.
Among them is 19-year-old James (not his real name), a high school graduate, who wishes to pursue a college degree while behind bars.
“Habang ada tuy nak ket kayat ko itultuloy ti eskwelak ta sayang daytoy opportunity nga inted ti BJMP,” he said.
[I would like to pursue my education while I am here inside taking advantage of this opportunity provided by the BJMP.]
The BJMP-Kalinga has also partnered with the TCNHS to help PDLs complete their basic education.
Last July 30, a total of 21 PDLs were oriented and registered to the senior high school program of the TCNHS.
“The activity included detailed presentations on the academic curriculum through modular distance learning, enrollment procedures, and available support services, ensuring that the PDL-enrollees have a comprehensive understanding of their educational journey ahead,” the BJMP-Kalinga said in a statement.
These education programs will be facilitated through a combination of modular and online learning methods. (IOS-PIA CAR,Kalinga)
