Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) from the BJMP-Naujan District Jail showed that even behind bars, creativity and hope can take flight. They participated in the Saranggolahan sa Naujan kite festival on Easter Sunday, April 20, held at the Naujan Sports Complex.
Guided and supported by their jail officers, the inmates designed and launched colorful kites that symbolized freedom, renewal, and transformation. Among the entries, one kite — fashioned to resemble a Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) transport vehicle — stole the show and won Best Design in the Synchronized Kite Category, surpassing 16 other competitors.
Jail Officer 3 Joefrie Anglo, regional information officer for BJMP Mimaropa, explained the deeper meaning behind the event. “It’s more than just flying kites,” he said. “This is about giving PDLs the chance to express themselves and be part of something meaningful. It shows that change is possible.”
Jail Officer 1 Allen Glen Delica, BJMP-Naujan’s community relations officer, added that such activities are essential in helping inmates reconnect with their values, dreams, and sense of purpose.
The event reflects BJMP Mimaropa’s commitment to rehabilitation through arts, culture, and community engagement — a message that resonates across provinces in the region, including Romblon, where similar programs have helped inspire new paths forward for persons in custody.
As their kites rose high, so too did their hopes for redemption and a second chance at life.
