A total of 22 Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at the Mamburao District Jail learned how to make graham balls as part of a livelihood training program aimed at equipping them with skills for life after release.

This activity falls under the BJMP’s Inmates’ Welfare and Development Program (IWDP), a mandate that guides rehabilitation efforts across district, city, and municipal jails in the Philippines. The program delivers holistic services that include livelihood and skills training, education, healthcare, and recreation to aid inmates’ transformation into productive citizens.

According to the BJMP’s official website, livelihood training empowers PDLs “to earn for their personal upkeep” and develop self-reliance while in custody.

A PIA report from January 2025 detailed similar efforts at the same facility, noting that livelihood programs “equip PDLs with skills to earn money while keeping boredom at bay.”

According to BJMP, over 112,000 PDLs nationwide have participated in livelihood and skills training programs.

Skills Enhancement Officer and Jail Officer 1 Hazel Urieta led the Graham Ball workshop at the Mamburao District Jail, choosing the recipe for its simplicity, affordability, and potential for income generation.

“This activity is more than just making dessert, it’s about empowering our PDLs with skills they can use to earn a living and rebuild their lives,” Urieta said.

BJMP Mimaropa Regional Information Officer Jail Officer 3 Joefrie Anglo explained that the program forms part of ongoing rehabilitation and livelihood initiatives.

“By acquiring basic food preparation skills, participants can explore income-generating opportunities, whether inside the facility or upon release,” he added.

According to Anglo, one participant said the training gave them a practical way to start over.

“Madali lang pala gawin at masarap pa. Pwede naming pagkakitaan ito balang araw,” the PDL said.

Livelihood programs like this one serve underrepresented and often stigmatized sectors, such as PDLs, who face significant obstacles in finding employment post-release.

By fostering practical skills, the BJMP aims to reduce recidivism and ease inmates’ return to society.