Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) in Antique are set to receive technological assistance and access to college education through the project, “Holistic Opportunities and People’s Empowerment (HOPE) in Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) through CEST”.

There is HOPE for the PDLs to overcome personal, economic, social and civic deficiencies while in the confines of the BJMP. The project funded under DOST’s Community Empowerment thru Science and Technology (CEST) Program was officially launched today, January 31, 2024 in San Jose, Antique. Through this endeavor, the PDLs will be given an opportunity to pursue college education and earn a degree even behind bars. This will be made possible through the conduct of blended learning in partnership with the University of Antique. “Hope in BJMP through CEST” will also include livelihood component that will capacitate the PDLs to be future entrepreneurs. DOST technologies such as Ceramic Water Filters for safe drinking water and RxBox to access health care services will also be provided along with bakery equipment, Bantay Panahon information system, solid waste management training and disaster preparedness.

The commitment to empower and positively transform the lives of the PDLs was sealed through the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding among the key officials of the cooperating agencies headed by Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga, DOST VI Regional Director, Dr. Pablo S. Crespo, Jr., UA President, and JCSUPT Simeon S. Dolojo, Jr., DSC, BJMP VI Regional Director.

Cong. Antonio Agapito “AA” Legarda, Representative of the Lone District of Antique, Governor Rhodora Cadiao, and Mayor Elmer C. Untaran of San Jose de Buenavista, Antique expressed their fervent support for the project as it will bring a positive and lasting impact on the lives of the PDL beneficiaries, their families and the community as a whole.

(NABFactuar/KMO, JEDAvila/Antique PSTO)