A total of 187 Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) from the Metro Bacolod District Jail (MBDJ) graduated from the Alternative Learning System (ALS) during the 11th Completion Rites and Graduation Ceremony.
The ceremony, which combined graduates from both the MBDJ Male Dormitory and Female Dormitory, marked a significant milestone in the PDLs’ educational journey.
Of the 187 graduates, 48 completed their elementary education, with 45 from the Male Dormitory and 3 from the Female Dormitory. Additionally, 139 PDLs completed their Junior High School education, with 115 from the Male Dormitory and 24 from the Female Dormitory.
Bacolod Councilor Pao, representing Bacolod Mayor Albee Benitez, served as the guest of honor and keynote speaker for the event, which carried the theme “Kabataang Pilipino Para sa Matatag na Kinabukasan ng Bagong Pilipinas.”
MBDJ Male Dormitory Annex Jail Warden JSupt. Abner Zamora announced that this year will also see the launch of the College Education Behind Bars program, offering a Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship. The program is a partnership with Bago City College, aiming to further the education and rehabilitation of the PDLs.
MBDJ Female Dormitory Jail Warden Jail Chief Inspector Imee Lopera expressed gratitude to the parents of the PDLs for their unwavering support despite the challenging circumstances.
