KORONADAL CITY, SOUTH COTABATO — A new milestone in rehabilitation and skills development was reached inside the South Cotabato Rehabilitation and Detention Center (SCDRC) as 18 Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) completed the Massage Therapist NC II course and received their national certification, along with cash allowances recognizing their dedication and effort.
One of the graduates, known only by the alias “Al” shared an emotional reflection on his journey. Having spent four years inside the facility, he expressed how the program helped him rediscover his sense of purpose and dignity.
“This training is a great blessing. Out of more than 400 Persons Deprived of Liberty, I was chosen and even completed it. I will never forget everything I learned here,” he said.
(Isang malaking biyaya ang training na ito. Mula sa mahigit 400 PDLs, napili ako at nakapagtapos pa. Hindi ko makakalimutan ang mga natutunan ko dito).Al, who was also chosen to lead his batch, emphasized how programs like the massage therapy training remind PDLs that their lives still hold value and potential.
“When I am released, this will be my greatest takeaway—change and faith in God.”
(Sa paglabas ko, ito ang magiging baon ko—ang pagbabago at pananampalataya sa Diyos).
For many of the graduates, the training was more than just a course it was a life changing opportunity. The 18 participants expressed deep gratitude for being chosen among hundreds inside the facility.
According to SCDRC, the program is only one of several ongoing initiatives meant to help PDLs rebuild their lives and prepare for a productive future once released.
The graduation ceremony marked another success story in the provincial government’s continuing commitment to equip PDLs with practical skills that will support their reintegration into society.
The program, spearheaded by SCDRC under the leadership of Provincial Jail Warden Barney Condes, is aligned with the directive of Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities for PDLs and their families.
The participants completed 88 days of intensive training, conducted in partnership with Aroma Spa and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)–South Cotabato.
“The training covered proper massage techniques, anatomy, physiology, wellness principles, and hands-on spa service skills,” Condes said.
Facilitators ensured that the learners not only developed technical proficiency but also gained confidence in their newfound craft.
Beyond earning their NC II certification, PDLs also received additional cash assistance after achieving the highest ratings in the recent competency assessment.
“The incentive, officials said, serves as motivation and acknowledgment of the PDLs’ perseverance and discipline throughout the training,” Condes explained.
The graduates extended their heartfelt gratitude to the people and institutions behind the initiative SCDRC leadership, TESDA South Cotabato, Aroma Spa, and the Provincial Government of South Cotabato led by Governor Tamayo.
“They described the governor’s efforts as a reflection of “genuine concern” for the welfare and future of PDLs,” Condes shared.
The successful completion of the Massage Therapist NC II program showcases the growing impact of rehabilitation-centered detention management in South Cotabato.
As the 18 newly certified massage therapists look ahead, the program stands as a testament to second chances, transformation, and the power of education even within the walls of a detention facility.
The SCDRC hopes that the graduates will inspire others inside the center to participate in future livelihood and skills development programs that open doors to a more hopeful and productive life beyond incarceration.
