Bicol Saro Party-list Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan (Facebook)

The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) deserves kudos for initiating projects that showcase the creative works of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) and provide them opportunities to remain productive while in detention, a rookie solon said. 

One such project, according to Bicol Saro Party-list Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan, was the recently held PDL Livelihood Products Exhibit at the North Wing of the House of Representatives in Batasan Complex, Quezon City.  

Yamsuan graced the opening of the event, of which his office was among the organizers. 

"Ang mga [PDL] ay hindi lamang mga bilanggo, kundi mga indibidwal na may pangarap, may kakayahan, at may karapatan sa pangalawang pagkakataon. At sa ating pag-unlad bilang isang lipunan, bahagi ng ating tungkulin ang siguruhing kasama natin sila sa bawat hakbang tungo sa mas mabuting kinabukasan,” said Yamsuan at the opening of the exhibit. 

(PDLs are not mere prisoners, they are also individuals with dreams and abilities, and the right to a second chance at life. And as we progress as a society, part of our duty is to ensure that we include them in every step we take towards a vibrant future.) 

The exhibit, which has already sold many products crafted by PDLs prior to its formal opening, features “diamond” paintings, painted pots, handmade bags, homemade pastries and candies, scented candles and other souvenir items. 

“Through meaningful projects like this, we empower them to improve their skills and uncover their potential while supporting their families despite incarceration,” said Yamsuan, a former assistant secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), which supervises over the BJMP.  

Cagayan de Oro 2nd district Rep. Rufus Rodriguez and ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro were among the special guests who attended the opening of the exhibit.  

“Sa ating pagtutulungan (With our cooperation), we are not just opening an exhibit; we are unlocking doors of hope and second chances,” Yamsuan said.  

Yamsuan thanked the chief of the BJMP, Director Ruel Rivera, and the other officials and employees of the bureau for putting up the exhibit and implementing other projects that aim to not just rehabilitate PDLs, but also boost their morale and dignity.