Written by Ms. Shaira Jane S. Ongyod- UBHS Faculty
Education continues to serve as a bridge to hope as the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology – Cordillera Administrative Region (BJMP-CAR) and the University of Baguio High School formalized their partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony on February 26, 2026, at the Baguio City Jail – Male Dormitory.
The ceremony emphasized institutional cooperation in advancing rehabilitation programs for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL). While the media partners present had their own MOA signing with BJMP, their participation supported the broader advocacy of promoting public awareness and understanding of correctional rehabilitation efforts. Representatives from media organizations, including Mr. Joseph B. Manzano of Herald Express Baguio, Rev. Fr. Roland P. Buyagan of Mountain Province Broadcasting Corporation, and Ms. Cara Sacyatan of Bombo Radyo Baguio, expressed continued support for initiatives that encourage social appreciation of rehabilitation programs.
UBHS’ Commitment to Community Extension for PDL Rehabilitation
Representing the academic institution, Dr. Violeta F. Apiles, Principal of University of Baguio High School, conveyed appreciation for the opportunity to participate in rehabilitation advocacy. She emphasized that education remains a powerful tool for personal transformation and social healing.
The school’s extension programs aim to provide meaningful learning opportunities for PDL through academic assistance and skills development. By supporting educational access inside correctional facilities, the partnership helps prepare PDL learners for responsible and productive community reintegration after release.
Support from BJMP-CAR Leadership
The BJMP CAR is headed by Regional Director DELVIC L OREIRO, DSC, JD, who was represented during the ceremony by key regional officials. Present at the event were Assistant Regional Director for Administration MARK BRIAN S DIRAIN, Assistant Regional Director for Operations REYNALDO A PAGUIRAN JR., Regional Chief of Directorial Staff APRIL ROSE W AYANGWA, and Regional Chief of Welfare and Development JCINSP VILMA F FANGSILAT. Also representing facility leadership were Baguio City Jail Male Dormitory Warden JCINSP DEXTER B NGIPOL, Baguio City Jail Female Dormitory Warden JCINSP ERLINDA LAS-EGAN, and JSINSP LILLIAN P BANDA. Personnel from the BJMP-CAR Regional Office and from both the Baguio City Jail Male and Female Dormitories were likewise present to witness the ceremony.
Reading and Tutorial for Reformation Program
Central to the collaboration is the “Reading and Tutorial for Reformation Program,” an outreach initiative designed to strengthen literacy, learning access, and personal development among PDL. Anchored on restorative justice principles, the program promotes rehabilitation beyond punishment by providing opportunities for reflection, learning, and character formation. Through reading activities, tutorial sessions, and values-oriented guidance, the initiative helps PDL rebuild self-confidence, enhance knowledge, and develop positive life skills.
The program supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 by promoting quality and inclusive education through literacy enhancement and academic mentoring, particularly for PDL enrolled in the Alternative Learning System (ALS). It also contributes to SDG 10 by addressing social inequalities by extending development opportunities to marginalized groups, especially individuals affected by incarceration who face barriers in education and employment. Furthermore, the collaboration supports SDG 16 by promoting peace, justice, humane rehabilitation, and respect for human dignity within rehabilitation environments. The partnership also reflects SDG 17 by strengthening multi-sector cooperation in advancing sustainable development.
Holistic Development Through Skills and Wellness Programs
The initiative integrates livelihood and practical skills training to support future economic independence. Activities include hydroponics, urban gardening, information and communication technology (ICT) training, cookery, and baking, which may help participants explore potential income-generating opportunities after reintegration.
Counseling sessions, values formation activities, and wellness programs are also incorporated in the program to promote emotional resilience, strengthen self-worth, and encourage positive behavioral change among PDL participants.
Commitment to Hope and Community Healing
n the closing message delivered by Assistant Regional Director for Operations Reynaldo A. Paguirigan Jr. on behalf of Regional Director Oreiro, appreciation was expressed to UB High School and partner organizations for their steadfast support of rehabilitation programs that promote hope, dignity, and community development. The initiative was recognized as a significant step toward strengthening inclusive and humane rehabilitation efforts within correctional facilities.
The partnership between BJMP-CAR and UB High School reflects a shared vision of empowering Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) through education, skills training, and holistic rehabilitation. By reinforcing learning opportunities inside correctional facilities, the collaboration advances Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) by promoting inclusive and equitable access to learning. It also contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by extending development opportunities to marginalized populations, particularly individuals affected by incarceration. Furthermore, the initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) by fostering humane rehabilitation practices that uphold dignity and support social reintegration.
Equally important, the formalized cooperation between institutions exemplifies Sustainable Development Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by strengthening multi-sector collaboration and shared responsibility in advancing sustainable and community-centered development initiatives.
Through this unified effort, education and partnership are affirmed as transformative forces in rebuilding lives, restoring dignity, and strengthening communities.
