Iligan City, Philippines – February 18, 2025 marked a significant milestone as the completion ceremony for the Basic House Wiring Course under the “Behind the Bars” Program took place at the Iligan City Jail-Male Dormitory. A total of 15 Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) from two batches successfully completed the course, showcasing their newly acquired skills. The ceremony was graced by notable attendees, including JCINSP Carmelo A. Corsame, JINSP Marivic D. Vergara, and Dr. Rosario Nierva, Director of the WE CARE Extension Program of Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT).
In conjunction with the completion ceremony, the “Behind the Bars” Program was also relaunched, symbolizing a renewed commitment to providing vocational skills and life opportunities to PDL. The event featured the release of yellow balloons, led by JCINSP Corsame, JINSP Vergara and Dr. Reserva, embodying hope, courage, and the pursuit of dreams.
The course, offered by the College of Education (CED) of MSU-IIT, trained PDL in comprehending the production, transmission, and distribution of power within homes. Graduates of the 40-hour course are now eligible to perform house wiring jobs, equipping them with skills for future employment and reintegration into society.
The “Behind the Bars” Program, initiated in November 2023 in collaboration with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Region X (BJMPRO-X), extends beyond house wiring. It includes a variety of courses such as English literacy, computer programming, cooking, baking, cosmetology, and more, aimed at fostering entrepreneurship, craftsmanship, and interpersonal skills among PDL. It was renewed for another year through a signing of the memorandum of agreement on February 13, 2025 at the MSU-IIT.
During the event, JCINSP Carmelo A. Corsame emphasized the importance of rehabilitation and second chances in his speech, highlighting the transformative impact of the program. “Your resilience and determination to improve your lives are truly inspiring,” he addressed the PDL. “This program is a testament to your potential and the belief that every individual deserves a second chance.”
As the yellow balloons ascended, they served as a reminder of the limitless potential within each individual, soaring like the open sky above. The event underscored the significance of collaboration and support in creating opportunities for all, fostering a brighter and more inclusive future.
