CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro (PIA) — Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) in Naujan District Jail participated in the “Saranggolahan sa Naujan” kite festival. On Easter Sunday, April 20, at the Naujan town’s sports complex.
Held on Easter Sunday, April 20, at the Naujan town’s sports complex, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) MIMAROPA said in a press release that the participation of PDLs in the event forms part of the agency’s community-based rehabilitation program, aimed at promoting social reintegration through creativity and community involvement.
PDLs showcased their craftsmanship by creating handcrafted kites, which were flown by BJMP personnel alongside other participants during the festival.
Among the entries, a kite resembling a BJMP transport vehicle, won as Best Design in the Synchronized Kite Category, besting 16 other competitors.
BJMP MIMAROPA Regional Information Officer Joefrie Anglo said the activity reflects the agency’s commitment to holistic rehabilitation by integrating arts, culture and community engagement into its programs.
“The Saranggolahan Festival gave our PDLs a platform to express themselves and show that rehabilitation is possible through meaningful engagement,” Anglo said.
Meanwhile, Jail Officer 1 Allen Glen Delica, the community relations officer of BJMP-Naujan, said that activities such as kite-making help develop the confidence, creativity, and practical skills of PDLs, which are vital for their reintegration into society.
For his part, Tourism Officer Florentino C Gillado expressed support and appreciation to the participation of PDLs in the festival, highlighting its significance to both local tourism and social inclusion.
“The Saranggolahan sa Naujan is not just a celebration of our town’s culture and creativity, but also a platform to foster inclusivity,” Gillado said.
He added that welcoming PDLs into this kind of activity promotes a compassionate and united community while contributing to their rehabilitation. (JJGS/PIA MIMAROPA/With reports and photos from BJMP MIMAROPA)
