As #WeExtendtoEmpower the community and the Biliranons, Biliran Province State University, through the School of Teacher Education (STEd), officially launched Project KASANAYAN, a livelihood skills development program for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in Brgy. Calumpang, Naval.

KASANAYAN, which stands for Kaalaman at Abilidad na Sentro at Angkop sa Napapanahong Aksyon – Yaman at Negosyo, aims to empower PDLs with practical skills in crocheting and handicrafts, promoting economic self-sufficiency and supporting their reintegration into society through sustainable livelihood opportunities.

Ms. Miramar Serrion, activity leader and STEd extension chairperson, explained that the program was anchored on the findings of a community needs assessment conducted by her 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 added that the evidence-based approach ensures the project effectively addresses the specific challenges faced by PDLs.

The KASANAYAN launching, held on November 22, was attended by BiPSU Extension Office Director Dr. Alvin L. Ampong, STEd Dean Dr. Maribel Zipagan, STEd program chairpersons and faculty members, PDLs, and BJMP personnel, headed by Acting Warden JSINSP Elizer B. Bacog.

The launching marked the official start of the months-long engagement between STEd faculty members and the PDLs, which will run until February 2025.

In his message, JSINSP Bacog expressed his gratitude to the university for selecting the BJMP as the project's beneficiary. “Isang napakagandang programa po nito para sa ating mga kapatid dito dahil napagtitibay po ang adbokasiya natin na matulungan ang ating mga PDL [This is a very good program for our brothers and sisters here because it strengthens our advocacy to help our PDLs],” he said.

The warden also expressed his optimism for more impactful collaborations between the BJMP and BiPSU, emphasizing the importance of partnerships among agencies in championing different causes.

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

During the launching program, one of the PDL beneficiaries shared his excitement about the extension program, as a fresh start and an opportunity to focus on developing his skills while inside the facility.

“Usa ni nga inspiration sa amoa nga maningkamot hangtod sa muabot ang panahon nga ihatag sa amo ang among kalayaan [This is an inspiration for us to work hard until the time comes when we are granted our freedom],” he said.

Meanwhile, in his message, Extension Director Dr. Ampong highlighted that although the project is scheduled to run until February 2025, its impact on the lives of the PDLs will extend far beyond its duration. He emphasized that the skills and knowledge gained through the program will continue to benefit the participants, supporting their reintegration into society and contributing to their long-term empowerment and self-sufficiency.

“Dako ni nga tabang so that pag-gawas nato dire, duna na kita’y magamit nga mahimo nga pakabuhian [This is a big help so that when we go out, we have something we can use to make a living],” he added.

[This aligns with SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities.]