Report Over 10,000 Inmates Complete Education in Philippine Jails

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Picture courtesy of Inquirer

 

In a groundbreaking achievement, more than 10,000 inmates in the Philippines have completed their elementary and high school education whilst in detention, according to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). Announced this Tuesday, the initiative highlights efforts to reform the penal system through education.

 

The inmates, referred to as Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs), have achieved their basic education via the Department of Education’s Alternative Learning System (ALS). This programme offers a flexible learning pathway outside conventional classroom settings, targeting those who lack access to formal schooling. It encompasses nonformal and informal education, reaching even those incarcerated.

 

The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) oversees this initiative, ensuring educational accessibility within prison walls.

 

Under Republic Act No. 10592, inmates participating in education benefit from the Time Allowance for Studying, Teaching, and Mentoring. This law values their dedication to reform and self-improvement during imprisonment.

 

‘Meaningful Rehabilitation’

 

Additionally, 107 inmates have obtained college degrees through the Tertiary Education Behind Bars Program, a collaboration with the Commission on Higher Education. Currently, another 720 inmates are pursuing various degrees across the country.

 

The BJMP is actively seeking to expand its higher education offerings by partnering with more universities and colleges. This aligns with efforts to equip inmates with skills necessary for employment post-release.

 

Beyond traditional education, the government is committed to providing technical and livelihood training. In partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) and civil society groups, 112,707 inmates have completed courses in fields like carpentry, electronics, welding, arts and crafts, and small-scale entrepreneurship.

 

“These accomplishments reflect the government’s dedication to comprehensive and meaningful rehabilitation, supporting President Marcos Jr.’s vision of a society where justice and compassion coexist,” the DILG remarked.

 

The department further emphasised its ongoing investment in education and livelihood programmes to aid inmates in becoming “reformed and productive citizens” upon reentering society.

 

This forward-looking initiative not only offers a second chance to many but also stands as a testament to the transformative power of education, illustrating a model of rehabilitation that other nations might well consider emulating.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Inquirer 2025-07-09