Leave no one behind: DepEd, BJMP to expand educational opportunities for persons deprived of liberty
The Department of Education (DepEd) announced on Thursday, Oct. 10, that it has partnered with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) to enhance educational access for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) through the Alternative Learning System (ALS).

DepEd and BJMP formalized their partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed on Oct. 9.
DepEd stated that the MOA underscored the two agencies' shared commitment to “improve the well-being and educational rights of PDLs, recognizing education as a key component in rehabilitation and reintegration.”
By expanding educational access, DepEd plays a crucial role in developing the skills of PDLs, boosting their self-esteem, and preparing them for reintegration into society.
DepEd said this agreement also highlights its ongoing commitment to social justice and its mission to reach marginalized and underserved populations.
‘Tagapangalaga Ko, Guro Ko’
In his speech, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara praised the BJMP's "Tagapangalaga Ko, Guro Ko" program, which has played a vital role in ensuring continuous education for PDLs since its inception in 2010.
“Saludo po kami sa inyong pang-unawa at suporta sa kahalagahan ng edukasyon bilang bahagi ng rehabilitasyon ng ating mga kababayan (We salute your understanding and support for the importance of education as part of the rehabilitation of our fellow citizens),” Angara said.
“Together, we’re not just giving education; we are providing hope, dignity, and a brighter future,” he added.
Enrollment
Angara highlighted that, on average, around 20,000 PDLs have enrolled in ALS over the past three years.
For School Year (SY) 2023-2024 alone, data showed a total of 5,596 PDLs enrolled in elementary; 9,286 in junior high school; and 5,983 in senior high school under the program.
"Through this MOA, we are reinforcing our commitment to leave no one behind," Angara said. “With your help, we reaffirm that every Filipino, no matter their circumstances, deserves a chance to learn and grow,” he added.
Continued dedication
Meanwhile, BJMP Chief Ruel Rivera expressed his gratitude to DepEd for its continued dedication to creating meaningful change in the lives of PDLs.
“Ang inisyatibong ito ay isang patunay ng pinagsamang pagsisikap ng BJMP katuwang ang Kagawaran ng Edukasyon na sumasailalim sa isang layunin na lumikha ng mas makatarungan at makataong lipunan sa pamamagitan ng pagpapahalaga sa edukasyon (This initiative is proof of the joint efforts of the BJMP, in partnership with the Department of Education, working towards a goal of creating a more just and humane society through the value placed on education),” Rivera said.