SORSOGON CITY – A former Person Deprived of Liberty (PDL) received livelihood assistance under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Integrated Livelihood Program. The awarding ceremony took place at DOLE Sorsogon Office, attended by key officials from said agencies.
Among those present were JO3 Mark Alvin Lusuegro, Welfare and Development Officer, Sorsogon BJMP-PO; JO3 Mary Ann Buatis, Chief, Welfare and Development Section, JO1 Ian Jay Frando and JO1 Marc John Belen, Development Officers. Also in attendance was Aldin Q. Necerio, a former PDL and the latest beneficiary of the livelihood grant.
Empowering Former PDLs Through Livelihood Assistance
The awarding of DOLE-assisted livelihood projects forms part of the SCDJ Aftercare Program, a pioneering initiative aimed at helping former PDLs reintegrate into society through employment and entrepreneurship.
“This program is more than just financial assistance—it’s about giving former PDL a second chance,” said Jail Chief Inspector Louie Angelo C Ungria, SCDJ Acting District Jail Warden. “Through the Aftercare Program, we provide continuous support to help them become productive members of society,” he added.
A New Beginning for Beneficiaries
For Aldin Q. Necerio, the livelihood assistance represents hope and a fresh start. “Ining oportunidad ang nagtao sako ning pagbabago sakuyang buhay, asin sa pamilya ko, at mapatunayan ko na kaya ko man magbago. (This opportunity allows me to rebuild my life, support my family, and prove that change is possible),” he shared. “I am grateful to DOLE and BJMP for believing in second chances.”
The SCDJ Aftercare Program does not end with livelihood grants. It includes skills development, mentoring, and monitoring to ensure that beneficiaries maximize their potential and sustain their new businesses or employment.
With continued collaboration between BJMP, DOLE, and other government agencies, the initiative aims to strengthen the rehabilitation and reintegration process for former PDLs, enabling them to contribute positively to their communities and break the cycle of incarceration.
