Eight persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the City of San Fernando District Jail have started their college education at the City College of San Fernando, Pampanga (CCSFP).
The PDLs, including seven males and one female, are now enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Marketing Management after completing admission requirements, including an entrance exam conducted last February 4.
The beneficiaries have registered under the Project AKBAY program.
AKBAY was initiated by the city government, under the leadership of Mayor Vilma Caluag, to promote "inclusive education and rehabilitation."
The city government also provided each student with a tablet computer set.
“This is a dream come true. True rehabilitation begins with empowerment. When PDLs are given access to opportunities such as education, they regain their sense of purpose and dignity,” said Lord Rogelio T. Montero V, Acting District Jail Warden – Male Dormitory.
Shaila Claire P. Bondad, Acting District Jail Warden – Female Dormitory, for her part said that the program will provide better opportunities for the PDLs.
Gloria J. Victoria-Bañas, CCSFP President, said the admission of the PDLs to the school reflects their commitment to inclusiveness.
“Education humanizes and restores dignity. Our PDLs are still capable of growth, change, and becoming productive members of society,” she said.