(Provincial Government of Northern Samar)
TACLOBAN CITY – At least 70 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Northern Samar Provincial Jail (NSPJ) in Bobon town have successfully completed vocational training programs facilitated by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
The courses, which concluded on February 28, 2025, included coconut water vinegar and calamansi juice making, basic wiring, and entrepreneurship, according to the Northern Samar Provincial Information Office.
During the certificate distribution ceremony at NSPJ in Barangay Dancalan, Governor Edwin Ongchuan praised OIC-Provincial Jail Warden Jay Keenson Acebuche for fostering a rehabilitative environment inside the facility. He emphasized the importance of the training in helping PDLs secure livelihoods upon reintegration into society.
“As you re-enter society, you will carry these skills that can help your families. We thank TESDA for providing you with livelihood opportunities,” Ongchuan said.
OIC-Warden Acebuche reaffirmed his commitment to transformative justice, ensuring that all PDLs under his supervision experience rehabilitation and opportunities for growth.
“If justice has been elusive outside, I will make sure that transformative justice is felt among all persons deprived of liberty,” he stated.
DepEd Northern Samar Education Program Supervisor Manuel Lipata also expressed optimism, saying, “Behind the darkness, there is still hope,” as he underscored the significance of education and training for incarcerated individuals.
Following the ceremony, PDL graduates received care packages containing blankets and grocery items.
Gov. Ongchuan highlighted that the program, in collaboration with TESDA and DepEd, aligns with the provincial government’s commitment to providing education and livelihood opportunities for PDLs, promoting rehabilitation and second chances.
(JOEY A. GABIETA/ROEL T. AMAZONA)
