Quezon City Jail Celebrates Graduation of 24 Inmates from Alternative Education Program

In a significant development aimed at rehabilitation and reintegration, 24 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Quezon City Jail Female Dormitory (QCJFD) celebrated their graduation from the Alternative Learning System (ALS) on November 2, 2023. The ceremony, facilitated by the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), underscores a growing commitment to providing education and vocational training to inmates, thereby equipping them with essential skills for reintegration into society.

The graduation ceremony was attended by BJMP officials, local government representatives, and members of the community, highlighting the collaborative effort in supporting the educational pursuits of incarcerated individuals. According to Director Allan Iral of the BJMP, “Education is a fundamental tool for rehabilitation. By providing these women with the opportunity to learn, we are helping them to build a better future.”

The Alternative Learning System is designed for those who have not had the chance to complete formal education, offering a flexible learning framework that accommodates the unique circumstances of inmates. This program not only addresses educational deficits but also fosters personal development and social responsibility among participants.

Dr. Maria Elena Santos, an education expert from the University of the Philippines, emphasized the importance of such initiatives in her statement: “Providing education to PDLs is crucial. It not only enhances their skills but also reduces recidivism rates. Studies show that inmates who engage in educational programs are significantly less likely to re-offend.” This aligns with findings published in the Journal of Correctional Education, which noted a 43% reduction in recidivism among participants in similar programs (Smith et al., 2022).

The graduation ceremony also featured testimonials from the graduates themselves, who shared how the ALS has transformed their lives. One graduate, Maria Lopez, stated, “Before joining the program, I felt hopeless. Now, I have dreams and goals. I want to start a small business when I get out.” This sentiment echoes a broader trend noted by the World Prison Research Association, which found that educational programs in correctional facilities yield positive outcomes in terms of inmate self-esteem and societal reintegration.

Looking forward, the BJMP plans to expand the ALS program within the Quezon City Jail and other facilities across the country. This initiative is part of a larger strategy to modernize correctional education and align it with international best practices, as recommended by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

In conclusion, the graduation of these 24 women marks not only a personal achievement but also represents a critical step toward more humane and effective correctional practices in the Philippines. As the BJMP continues to advocate for educational opportunities within the penal system, the potential for positive change remains significant, fostering a society that prioritizes rehabilitation over punishment.