Persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Boac District Jail in Marinduque are handcrafting colorful Christmas lanterns, or parols, to earn income for their needs and to support their families this holiday season.

The project is part of the livelihood program of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and has long been practiced in several jails across the region, according to Jail Officer 3 Joefrie Anglo, spokesperson of BJMP Mimaropa.

“Each parol they make carries hope and light, not just for their cells, but for their loved ones waiting for them outside. We hope they will have a good selling of their parols so they can also enjoy a merry Christmas with their families,” Anglo said.

Aside from providing a livelihood, the activity also encourages creativity, discipline, and purpose among PDLs, officials added.

The handmade lanterns are available for sale, with proceeds directly going to the PDLs and their families.