OLONGAPO CITY (PIA) — About 20 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) completed a 10-day Basic Sewing Skills Training at the Olongapo City Jail, as part of continuing efforts to support rehabilitation through livelihood education.
The training was conducted by the Olongapo City Jail in partnership with the Livelihood Cooperative Development Office.
Jail Superintendent Junteddy Madria said the training aims to equip selected PDLs with practical sewing skills they can use for future livelihood upon release.
“This training gives them the opportunity to learn new skills, direction, and hope for a fresh start after incarceration. We thank Ms. Editha Taniana and Mayor Rolen Paulino Jr. for their unwavering support in providing sustainable livelihood programs for PDLs,” he said.
He explained that the PDL participants were chosen based on interest, good behavior, and readiness to learn. They were screened and endorsed by the facility’s Welfare and Development Section.
With the 10-day basic training, participants were taught basic sewing techniques including the use of sewing machines, fabric cutting, and the creation of simple products such as face masks, pillowcases, and clothing repairs. The training also helped develop discipline, teamwork, and a sense of responsibility among the participants.
The activity featured the awarding of certificates and short messages encouraging the PDL to apply their new skills toward a better future.
The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology continues to implement community-based programs that promote rehabilitation and reintegration of PDLs.
Through these efforts, PDLs are given the opportunity to gain confidence, learn discipline through group work, and prepare for a more productive life after release. (CLJD/RGP, PIA Region 3-Zambales)
