A total of 271 Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) from the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Mimaropa took the Alternative Learning System Accreditation and Equivalency (ALS-A&E) examination, according to jail officer 3 Joefrie Anglo on Saturday. The PDL-learners have been enrolled in ALS programs since last year.

After a 10-month review period, they were required to take the accreditation and equivalency test, which assessed their knowledge through multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and essays. The exams were administered by teachers from public schools and personnel from the Bureau of Alternative Education.

Each examinee received different examination papers based on whether they were seeking elementary or secondary accreditation. They will then present their results for final accreditation in Manila, where their competency will be evaluated to determine their eligibility for certification from the Department of Education (DepEd) for either the elementary or secondary level.

The BJMP has a memorandum of agreement with DepEd, emphasizing the ongoing collaboration between the agencies to provide basic education to out-of-school youth, adults and PDLs. This initiative offers PDLs an opportunity to improve themselves while serving their sentences.

“This development is a significant part of BJMP’s commitment to social justice and its mission of ensuring educational access for PDLs. It helps them develop skills, boost self-esteem, and prepare for reintegration into society,” Anglo said.

The public has been assured that efforts to give hope and dignity to PDLs will continue, with various programs in place to help them contribute to society when they are released from jail.