Five persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) from the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Romblon District Jail have earned their Senior High School diplomas through the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Alternative Learning System (ALS) program.

The graduates donned light blue togas and caps as they received their diplomas during a ceremony held on Wednesday, 16 April. The event was attended by their family members, underscoring the importance of education in the reintegration process.

BJMP Mimaropa information officer Jail Officer 3 Joefrie Anglo emphasized that the achievement reflects the BJMP’s commitment to providing educational opportunities to PDLs, aligning with broader efforts to support their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

One graduate was accompanied by his father, who expressed, “Education is the most essential tool they could use after their stay in our jail facility.”

Jail Inspector Fatima Rabino, acting district jail warden, delivered an emotional message highlighting the significance of the achievement.

“With your diplomas, you are not just graduates, but ambassadors of change — proof that no obstacle is insurmountable and that every individual deserves a second chance,” she said.

The ceremony also featured guest speaker Hazel Agor-Cipriano, a former ALS graduate, who shared her personal experiences and the transformative power of education.

The event was graced by Principal II Angel Morgado, OIC of Macario Molina National High School, along with ALS implementers Senior Jail Officer 1 Riza Fetalvero and Jail Officer 2 Leo Angelo Mayor.