For Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at La Carlota City District Jail, the Christmas season represents the most lucrative time of the year to earn income.
Since 2004, PDLs have embraced the Filipino tradition of crafting parol (Christmas lanterns), blending livelihood, rehabilitation, and community spirit into one bright tapestry.
Jail Officer Justin Delgado, the livelihood project in charge, told Brigada News FM Kabankalan that PDLs have engaged in parol-making since 2004. He explained that the project aims to give inmates a valuable avenue to earn income while fostering personal growth.
“We aim to equip PDLs with valuable skills and a sense of purpose, fostering their personal growth and preparing them for reintegration into society,” he said.
Transformation
Inside the jail, once-sad halls now echo with the sounds of work and joy—cutting bamboo, pasting vibrant cellophane, affixing glittering ornaments, and installing bulbs. These activities bring life to the facility, giving PDLs a sense of accomplishment as they contribute to the creation of beautiful parols.
According to Delgado, the proceeds from parol sales are allocated to the PDLs for their necessities inside the jail, while some funds are sent to support their families outside the facility. In this way, the program not only benefits the PDLs but also their loved ones.
The parols come in two sizes: small and large, priced between ₱80 and ₱1,500 each, according to Delgado. This year, 15 PDLs actively participate in the program, showcasing their skills and cooperation. This involvement also highlights the growing success and impact of the project.
For some PDLs, this marks their first time learning the craft. However, with guidance from skilled PDL mentors and occasional workshops through their skill enhancement program, they have learned to transform raw materials into stunning works of art.
Delgado added, “The parol-making program starts every September. PDLs produce over a thousand simple parols and several Pampanga-inspired lanterns, which people can purchase at our jail.”
Delgado also emphasized that parol-making is just one of many rehabilitation programs offered at the jail. Other activities include urban gardening, hydroponics, handcrafted wallets, rug-making, and catfish production.
These initiatives, he explained, reflect the BJMP’s commitment to rehabilitation by providing PDLs with productive activities that promote self-sufficiency and a positive outlook on life. “These programs help PDLs build a better future while serving their time,” he said.
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, contributes to Negros Daily Bulletin, and maintains a personal blog on Medium.