DepEd, BJMP sign pact to empower PDLs via alternative education

Persons deprived of liberty at the Angeles District Jail wait for their turn to be vaccinated against COVID-19. DepEd and BJMP have inked an agreement to empower PDLs by enhancing access to education. (File photo from the Angeles City government)

MANILA, Philippines — More persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) will be able to continue their studies following an agreement signed between the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).

According to DepEd, the two agencies signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) on Wednesday to enhance educational access for PDLs through the Alternative Learning System (ALS).

“Through this MOA, we are reinforcing our commitment to leave no one behind. With your help, we reaffirm that every Filipino, no matter their circumstances, deserves a chance to learn and grow,” Education Sec. Sonny Angara said in a statement on Thursday.

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Angara said, around 20,000 PDLs have already enrolled in ALS over the past three years.

Of this total, 5,596 PDLs were enrolled in elementary school, 9,286 in junior high school, and 5,983 in senior high school for the school year 2023 to 2024.

The DepEd chief then said expanding educational access for PDLs would lead to developing the skills of PDLs, boosting their self-esteem, and preparing them for reintegration into society.

The agreement is also in line with DepEd’s commitment to “social justice and its mission to reach marginalized and underserved populations.”

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