Biliran Province State University Naval Campus’ School of Teacher Education (STEd) formally culminated their four-month old extension program at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Naval District Jail in Brgy. Calumpang, Naval on April 2.

The Project Kaalaman at Abilidad na Sentro at Angkop sa Napapanahong Aksyon - Yaman at Negosyo (Project KASANAYAN), a livelihood skills development program for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at the BJMP Naval District Jail was formally launched on November 22 last year.

KASANAYAN aimed to empower PDLs with practical skills in crocheting and handicrafts, promoting economic self-sufficiency and supporting their reintegration into society through sustainable livelihood opportunities. 

The program was anchored on the findings of a community needs assessment conducted by Miramar M. Serrion, activity leader and STEd extension chairperson; and Dr. Joan Sinagpulo, project leader and BTLEd and BPEd chairperson, entitled “Needs-Based Assessment of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) for Community Empowerment and Rehabilitation.”

The study identified the critical needs of PDLs in areas such as literacy, health, social development, and technology and livelihood skills. Serrion said that the evidence-based approach ensures the project effectively addresses the specific challenges faced by PDLs.

Under the project, PDLs underwent weekly training sessions in crocheting and handicrafts, focusing on skills that are viable for income generation. These sessions were conducted throughout the project duration, with STEd faculty members who are experts in livelihood education personally facilitating the training.

The culminating activity was conducted after more than four months of the project’s implementation. The program was attended by Dr. Joan Sinagpulo, project leader and technology and livelihood education and physical education department chairperson; Glenn Gomba, head of Research Office’s Knowledge and Information Management Unit; Miramar M. Serrion, project facilitators, and extension office personnel. 

JSINSP Elizer B. Bacog, acting warden of BJMP Naval District Jail, also attended the activity along with the BJMP personnel and PDL beneficiaries.

In his message, Dr. Alvin L. Ampong, director of Extension Services Office, represented by Glenn Gumba, said that the program has been a journey of empowerment, resilience, and transformation, providing the PDL participants with valuable knowledge and hands-on experience to help them build a better future. 

“Through this initiative, we reaffirm our commitment to rehabilitation, skills development, and reintegration, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society,” Dr. Ampong said.

Meanwhile, in his message, JSINSP Bacog expressed the bureau’s gratitude for BiPSU’s extension service and highlighted the project's importance in providing hope for the PDLs.

“Thank you for showing them [PDLs] that learning doesn’t stop even within confined facility,” the BJMP warden said. “Hindi lang ito paghahabi ng sinulid, ito ay paghahabi ng pag-asa [This is not just mere weaving of threads, but also a weaving of hope].”

PDLs also shared their experience and the impact of the extension service. One female PDL expressed her gratitude for the project which she described as a stepping stone to having new life once they are reintegrated to the outside community.

“Daghang salamat kay may mga tawo nga sama ninyo nga nakahinumdom sa amo dire [Thank you so much for having people like you who remember us here],” the PDL said. “Pinaagi sa inyong tabang sa amo, wala diay mi ning-anhi para mapreso lamang, kundi para mabag-o ang kinabuhi ["With your help, we are not here just to be confined, but to change our lives].”

Another young PDL also shared that his appreciation to the university for the extension program. “Nakaka-appreciate na kahit nandito kami sa aming komunidad, meron pa palang mga taong handang tumulong sa amin at nagpakita sa amin kung paano namin pwedeng gawing makabuluhan ang stay namin dito [It is appreciating that even though we are here in our community, there are still people willing to help us and show us how we can make our stay here meaningful],” he said.

Moreover, handicrafts such as crocheted bags, apparel, coin purse, vase, and bayongs were also exhibited during the culminating activity.

Certificates of Completion, which the beneficiaries may use once reintegrated to the community, were also provided.

[This aligns with SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions]