The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP)–Mandaue is set to establish a “College Behind Bars” program, allowing persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) to pursue a college degree while serving their sentences.
City Jail Warden Jail Superintendent Jessie James Gingoyon said dedicated learning facilities will be constructed within both the male and female dormitories to support the program.
“Imprisonment should focus on rehabilitation, not merely punishment,” Gingoyon said. “We aim to provide PDLs with education and skills to prepare them for reintegration into society.”
The initiative is being prioritized by BJMP–Mandaue in coordination with Senior Inspector Roselle Paracale, head of the female dormitory, with partnerships already being arranged.
Gingoyon added that BJMP–Mandaue and Mandaue City College are set to sign a memorandum of agreement to formalize the program.
“Hopefully by 2026, we can already offer college education inside the facility,” he said.
Qualified PDLs who have completed senior high school will be eligible to enroll in the degree programs, which may include courses in Business Management and Information Technology—fields identified as in-demand to improve post-release employment opportunities.
The program is being supported by the Mandaue City local government to ensure its smooth implementation.
Beyond academics, PDLs are participating in livelihood programs such as bread and pastry production, crafts making, painting, bonsai cultivation, and wood carving.
Gingoyon highlighted the jail’s personalized PVC lamps produced by PDLs, which are unique to Mandaue BJMP and consistently sell out.
Proceeds from these activities directly benefit the PDLs. (VCL)
Photo from BJMP Mandaue City Jail
