TESDA-Accredited Training Center Opens Inside Iloilo District Jail
A Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-accredited training center has been established at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) facility in Barangay Nanga, Pototan, Iloilo, marking the first time a district jail training center has received such accreditation.
Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. said the initiative aims to support the rehabilitation of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) by equipping them with skills that will help them reintegrate into society.
“Rehabilitation is not just about being inside jail. It’s about preparing them when they get out,” Defensor said.
Iloilo Provincial Public Employment Service Office manager Cynthia Dario said the program is designed to make PDLs productive upon their release, with the goal of enabling them to earn National Certificates (NC) from TESDA that can improve their employment prospects.
Initial training courses identified for the center include bookkeeping and bread and pastry production. These were officially awarded on March 15 during the center’s launch, attended by Jose Francisco Benitez.
The bread and pastry course will cater to PDLs, while bookkeeping training will be open to non-PDL participants.
A training needs analysis will also be conducted to identify additional courses, which will be submitted for TESDA approval.
Beyond TESDA-certified programs, the center will also offer in-house training through the Provincial Agriculture Office and the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office, further expanding learning opportunities for inmates and other beneficiaries.
NPO News Team | Philippine News Agency - PR
