Mayor Trina Alejandra Firmalo-Fabic of Odiongan, Romblon, has encouraged the public to purchase handicrafts made by Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) during the holiday season. The initiative aims to provide PDLs with a means to earn for their personal upkeep and support their families financially while spreading the Christmas spirit.
The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) – Romblon District Jail said that PDLs began crafting various items as early as September. Their creations include Christmas trees, lanterns, fashion bags, coin purses, flower pots, and indigenous products—handmade goods that are popular during the festive season.
In a press release, the BJMP Regional Office MIMAROPA expressed hope that these activities will bring brighter holidays to PDLs in its facilities. The agency noted that by purchasing PDL-made products, people not only spread holiday cheer but also contribute to building better futures for the incarcerated individuals.
“But for PDLs, more than the income earned is a deeper understanding, that the spirit of Christmas is without boundaries. The simple joys of buying and appreciating their creativity are already an affirmation and a holiday cheer that is giving them new hope and inspiration behind bars,” according to BJMP MIMAROPA Information Officer, Jail Officer 3 Joefrie Anglo.
