Iloilo City Government Expands Skills Training for Persons Deprived of Liberty
In a significant move to support rehabilitation and reintegration, the Iloilo City Government has dramatically expanded its Selda (Skills Entrepreneurship and Livelihood Development Activity) program, now offering 20 training options for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs). This enhancement marks a substantial increase from the initial courses, which included jail pantry, reflexology, and cosmetology.
Mayor's Commitment to Inclusive Development
Mayor Raisa Treñas emphasized the program's importance, stating, "This is a major help for our PDLs, so that when they are released, they have a livelihood. This is part of the Iloilo City Government's direction to have programs for all sectors." She also reaffirmed the city's continued support for the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), highlighting the collaborative effort to empower PDLs through skills development.
Treñas added that the expanded training courses aim to provide more opportunities for PDLs to rebuild their lives, fostering empowerment and reducing recidivism. The program is designed to align with the skills and interests of participants while creating pathways for income generation.
Formalizing the Enhanced Initiative
To formalize this expanded initiative, an activity proposal signing was held on April 6 at the City Mayor's Office. The event was led by Mayor Treñas, alongside BJMP Western Visayas director Jail Chief Superintendent Jhon Montero and Technical Institute of Iloilo City (TIIC) School Administrator Maria Mathilde Treñas. This signing underscores the commitment to providing structured and certified training.
The enhanced program now covers a wider range of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and livelihood programs, all aligned with Tesda standards. This ensures that the skills acquired are recognized and valuable in the job market.
Comprehensive Program Offerings
The Selda program's offerings are divided into several categories to cater to diverse interests and needs:
- TVET Courses: Automotive Servicing NC I, Construction Painting NC II, Driving NC II, Electrical Installation and Maintenance NC II, Masonry NC II, Plumbing NC II, Shielded Metal Arc Welding NC I, and Tourism Promotion Services NC II.
- Livelihood and Skills Training: Emergency Medical Response, Food and Beverage Management, Computer Literacy, Fashion and Garments Production, Electronics Servicing, Cosmetology, Culinary Arts/Jail Pantry, Basic Computer Hardware and Maintenance, Reflexology (Massage), and Rug and Pot Holder Weaving.
- Business-Related Workshops: Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship Training.
Additional Support and Past Success
In addition to the signing, the City Government turned over specialized recipe books to the BJMP. These books feature original culinary creations developed by program graduates, showcasing the skills and creativity fostered within the facility. This gesture highlights the tangible outcomes of the training and provides ongoing resources for current participants.
Since 2023, the Iloilo City Government, through TIIC and in partnership with private stakeholders, has implemented initial training programs such as jail pantry, reflexology, and cosmetology for PDLs. To date, 136 PDLs have graduated from these initiatives, gaining practical livelihood skills that enhance their prospects upon release.
The expansion of the Selda program reflects a proactive approach to social inclusion and economic empowerment, aiming to transform lives and contribute to community safety and development.
