There is no resource more powerful than an education, where people can gain new skills and learn new perspectives,” one Bureau of Corrections – BuCor official said. A group of incarcerated students at the DAPECOL began a new chapter of their lives on July15th 2022 after graduation with their Senior High Diploma. “ Today, an education to me, means freedom, forgiveness, accountability, , and opportunity.” One of the graduates, said during the ceremony. The opportunity to show that we are not our worst decisions,” one of the student added.Obtaining diploma in a prison setting through a partner like College Education Behind Bars , Thompsons Christian School, SETBI is an opportunity for incarcerated people to have a true second chance. Their accomplishment has a positive effect on the other People of Deprived Liberty ( PDLS ), their friends, families, and communities. An because of this, we strongly believe that a college education behind bars is about breaking the cycle of incarceration and reduce the recidivism rate , and decongesting Prison population. While some argue incarcerated people do not deserve a second chance because of the crimes they committed but we believe education is the key to create a healing environment both inside and outside prison walls. The public should know that education behind bars isn’t a free pass to wipe their slates clean. It is an acknowledgement that they have to change their lives to be accountable , and education is that allows them to do that. Big Congratulation to PDLS, Davao Prison Penal Farm superintendent, education department officers, Thompson Christian School teachers, President of SETBI Dr. Aland Mizell, Vice President Attorney Susan Cariaga .
