Written by: Shaira Jane S. Ongyod- UBHS Faculty Member
The University of Baguio (UB) was honored with a Plaque of Recognition by the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology–Cordillera Administrative Region (BJMP-CAR) under the leadership of the Regional Director JCSUPT Delvic L. Oreiro, DSC, JD, in recognition of its meaningful partnership and continued commitment to supporting Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) through education, wellness, livelihood, and community engagement.
The recognition was presented during the BJMP-CAR 35th Foundation Anniversary held on August 24, 2026, at the Igorot Hall, John Hay Convention Center. The award was received on behalf of the University by UB High School Principal Dr. Violeta F. Apiles, representing the institution’s collective commitment to extending its educational mission beyond the traditional classroom.
At the heart of UB’s partnership with BJMP-CAR is the Reading and Tutorial Reformation Program (RTRP), an initiative that brings learning opportunities, educational resources, and meaningful developmental activities to PDL. Through the program, UB has reached 184 PDL, providing avenues for continued learning and personal development despite the limitations of a correctional setting.
UBHS’ Recognition Highlights Its Commitment to Education and Service
The program’s impact extends beyond academic support. UB High School has conducted successful donation-giving activities for the Baguio and La Trinidad jail facilities, providing essential resources that contribute to the welfare and learning needs of PDL. The University also extended its community engagement to Buguias District Jail, where livelihood training, and mental health and wellness activities were conducted to support participants in developing practical skills while promoting self-care, resilience, and overall well-being. This program is an initiative aiming for the formal partnership with Aramidua Handmade Crafts by Ms. Maria Criselda Teodoro-Lopez.
These initiatives demonstrate UB High School’s belief that education is not confined by walls. Learning can serve as a bridge toward renewed hope, personal growth, and opportunities for transformation. By providing educational materials, skills development, and psychosocial support, the University helps create an environment where PDL can continue to learn, discover their capacities, and prepare for meaningful participation in their families and communities.
The success of these initiatives was made possible through the generosity and collective action of the University community and its stakeholders. UBHS extends its heartfelt appreciation to its students, parents, alumni—including the members of Alumni Batch 1996—the UB Library, UB Finance Department, Namaste, and other generous donors who supported the Stakeholders Donation Drive conducted in December 2025 to April 2026.
The donation drive generated essential resources that were distributed to support the educational and personal needs of PDL. These included hygiene kits, T-shirts, towels, Alternative Learning System (ALS) kits for ALS enrollees, and educational books. Each contribution, regardless of size, became part of a larger effort to promote dignity, learning, and hope among individuals who continue to pursue education and personal development while in detention.
The contribution of the UB Library was particularly significant in strengthening access to reading and educational resources, while the support of the UB Finance Department and other university offices helped facilitate the successful implementation of the initiative. The involvement of students, parents, alumni, and external supporters further demonstrated the power of a community united by compassion and service.
Building Hope Through Education, Wellness, and Community Partnership
The partnership also reflects the University of Baguio’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The RTRP directly advances SDG 4: Quality Education by expanding access to learning opportunities and educational resources. Its mental health and wellness initiatives contribute to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, while efforts to provide equitable opportunities for PDL support SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities. Finally, the collaboration between UB, BJMP-CAR, stakeholders, and partner communities embodies SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, emphasizing the importance of collective action in addressing community needs.
The Plaque of Recognition is therefore more than an institutional award. It is a celebration of the shared efforts of the University, BJMP-CAR, donors, educators, learners, and community partners who believe that every person deserves opportunities to learn, grow, and hope.
Moving forward, the University of Baguio hopes to expand the reach of the Reading and Tutorial Reformation Program to more PDL across the Cordillera Region. With continued collaboration and stakeholder support, UB remains committed to bringing its mission of education and service to communities where it can make a meaningful difference.
Through every book shared, skill taught, resource donated, and life touched, the University continues to live out a powerful message: learning can go beyond the classroom, and hope can go beyond walls.
