Persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) undergo financial literacy training to prepare them for reintegration in the community once they complete their sentences.

The idea of managing finances seemed irrelevant at first to the PDLs because they are incarcerated but when they joined, 60 of them, on 26 April 2025, in a financial literacy training led by the College of Economics, Business and Accountancy (CEBA) of Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) they understood the importance of it.

The seminar was held at the Welfare and Development Activity Area of Iligan City Jail-Male Dormitory. The program aimed to equip PDLs with essential financial skills to help them reintegrate into society successfully. Participants learned about budgeting, saving and spending, investments, and insurance — tools necessary for achieving financial independence.

For Resty, one of those who joined, the training provided more than just numbers and theories — it offered hope. “I never really thought about saving or planning for the future before, but now, I feel like I have a chance to prepare for life outside,” he shared.

Financial literacy is vital for PDLs, many of whom face significant challenges upon release. Without financial knowledge, they risk falling into economic instability, which could lead to recidivism.

CEBA head of delegation assistant prof. Charlyn M. Capulong, along with her team, highlighted the significance of such training in rehabilitation. “More than managing money, financial literacy is about restoring dignity and enabling economic independence,” she explained.