By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
Reinforcing the belief that persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) can reintegrate into society after serving their sentences, First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos visited New Bilibid Prison (NBP) to facilitate an outreach program for the incarcerated individuals.
The First Lady brought with her the Kulay, Kalinga, Katarungan at Kalayaan Program, where PDLs at the Medium Security Camp participated in painting lessons and availed of services through a dermatological medical and wellness mission, as well as para-legal assistance led by more than 200 volunteer lawyers under the Department of Justice’s action center.
She addressed approximately 1,800 PDLs in her speech, “To all our PDLs who are here today, always remember, always try to learn something new so you’ll discover what you’re capable of.”
The event also saw the release of 43 PDLs, with the documents of more than 1,000 others being processed for possible release in the coming weeks, subject to legal requirements.
These PDLs, who were granted a second chance at freedom, as well as others awaiting the termination of their sentences, can finally reunite with their loved ones in time for the year-end festivities and begin a new chapter in their lives.
Beyond providing immediate assistance, the initiative recognizes that rehabilitation involves more than serving a sentence. It also means ensuring access to healthcare, opportunities for personal growth, and the legal assistance necessary for eligible individuals to return to their communities.
The First Lady concluded her speech by expressing her heartfelt gratitude to event donors and partners who provided livelihood assistance such as skills training from TESDA, motorcycles from a hailing company, and cash assistance from an investment company, as well as to renowned artists who offered painting lessons.
jpv
