Behind the walls of Mamburao District Jail in Occidental Mindoro, hope shines this Christmas as Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) transformed a simple tree into a “Tree of Hope” through their handmade Christmas balls.

According to Jail Officer 3 Joefrie Anglo, spokesperson of BJMP MIMAROPA, the initiative, called “Sana Ngayong Pasko,” allows PDLs to pour their creativity and personal wishes into each ornament, reflecting their dreams for a better year despite being confined.

“Every ornament is a small prayer for change—a reminder that even within jail walls, people continue to hope and imagine better days,” Anglo said.

“This tree is more than decoration. It embodies their resilience, their quiet dreams, and the possibility of new beginnings,” he added.

Anglo said the project also highlights how skill-building and rehabilitative activities help PDLs express themselves, find purpose, and reconnect with their families and communities in meaningful ways.

As the season of giving unfolds, Anglo believes that the tree serves as a reminder to the public to recognize the humanity of those behind bars and to extend kindness even to the quietest corners of society.

The Christmas tree, adorned with the PDLs’ handcrafted wishes, stands as both a festive decoration and a symbol of hope, showing that goodwill can flourish even in unlikely places.