BURAUEN, Leyte — In a move to improve the welfare of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), Junior Chamber International (JCI) Burauen Burabud donated 20 bed frames to the Burauen District Jail and announced a series of programs under its humanitarian initiative, Project HOPE.
The turnover activity, held on Thursday, March 5, was attended by officials from JCI chapters across Leyte, representatives of the Burauen local government, BJMP personnel, and JCI National Executive Vice President Joseph Ginno Jaralve.
Burauen District Jail Warden Jinsp. Edilberto Velarde expressed gratitude for the donation, highlighting the significance of support from civic groups in enhancing the living conditions and rehabilitation of inmates.
Project HOPE (Humanitarian Outreach and Opportunities for Peace and Empowerment) includes initiatives such as livelihood and skills training in partnership with TESDA, the Department of Agriculture, and Eastern Visayas State University. Inmates will be trained in craft-making, key chain production, candle making, rug weaving, and gardening.
Mental health and wellness sessions, facilitated by the Department of Health and Eastern Visayas Medical Center, are also planned, focusing on stress management and emotional coping. Legal assistance and orientation will be provided with the support of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines.
The program also aims to boost morale through recreational activities, including singing and dancing, inspirational talks with religious leaders, and gift-giving events.
JCI Burauen Burabud President Atty. Gerli Therese Abrillo said the organization plans to extend support to inmates upon release, assisting them in securing employment.
The Burauen District Jail currently houses 61 inmates—about 300 percent above its intended capacity of 20—underscoring the facility’s congestion challenges. The donation and programs aim to provide both immediate relief and long-term rehabilitation opportunities for PDLs.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
