By Glazyl Y. Masculino
BACOLOD CITY – The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) has partnered with Bacolod City College (BCC) to launch the College Education Behind Bars (CEBB) program, enabling Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) to complete their college education.
Jail Supt. Abner Zamora, former warden of the Metro Bacolod District Jail-Male Dormitory Annex in Barangay Handumanan, represented Jail Chief Supt. Simeon Dolojo, BJMP-6 director, during the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Mayor Alfredo “Albee” Benitez and BCC Administrator Ma. Johanna Ann Bayoneta at the Bacolod City Government Center on Monday.
Zamora said in an interview that BCC will accommodate 25 qualified PDLs for the Academic Year 2024-2025, allowing them to complete a four-year degree program.
He noted that a profiling process is underway for more than 900 PDLs to identify qualified participants, excluding those who have already been convicted.
Zamora highlighted the PDLs’ eagerness to pursue education despite their circumstances. “It is fortunate that the city government is willing to help them,” he said.
The program outlined in the MOA aims to transform PDLs’ lives and prepare them for reintegration into society.
The educational process will engage PDLs in classroom settings, allowing them to earn a baccalaureate degree while awaiting the resolution of their cases.
The program also aims to positively influence PDLs’ behavior and improve their interactions with fellow inmates.
Upon release, PDLs may continue their studies by submitting academic and documentary requirements to BCC.
The BJMP will provide a secure learning environment within its guidelines, while BCC will handle academic admission, teaching, instructor assignments, library access, and other support services for the PDLs.
BCC will confer degrees or diplomas upon program completion in compliance with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) requirements.
The budget for the program’s continuation will be shared by the involved parties, and equipment and supplies used will be managed by designated representatives.
Addressing potential security concerns, Zamora assured that the BJMP will ensure the safety of teachers and monitor the PDLs during classes.
