Koronadal City, South Cotabato — Hope and opportunity are now within reach for a Person Deprived of Liberty (PDL) at the South Cotabato Rehabilitation and Detention Center (SCRDC) after completing a government funded training program that earned him a National Certificate II (NCII).
The PDL, identified as alias Al, is among only a few selected from the facility’s 468 PDLs to undergo the technical-vocational course. He described the training as a life-changing opportunity that will allow him to “restart life with dignity” once he regains his freedom.
“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. Sa paglabas ko, ito ang magiging baon ko ang pagbabago at pananampalataya sa Diyos”
Apart from the NCII certification, beneficiaries also received cash assistance to support their families, a gesture he said brought immediate relief to their loved ones struggling outside the facility.
He expressed his gratitude to the leadership of SCRDC headed by Jail Warden Barney Condes, acknowledging that the warden’s support and reform programs have helped them transform their perspective and prepare for rehabilitation.
Alyas Al also thanked the Provincial Government of South Cotabato, led by Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr., saying the provincial government provides “genuine concern” for the welfare of PDLs by equipping them with skills that will help them reintegrate successfully into society.
Motivated by his family, he shared that they remain his strongest inspiration for finishing the course. With a renewed outlook and new livelihood skills, he looks forward to rebuilding his life and becoming a productive member of the community.
The technical-vocational program forms part of the province’s ongoing initiative to strengthen rehabilitation, support livelihood training for PDLs, and empower them with tools for successful reintegration.
