In a significant step toward rehabilitation and reintegration, twenty-three female detainees at the Cebu City Jail have successfully completed a comprehensive two-month basic housekeeping skills training program. This initiative forms a crucial part of the government's broader rehabilitation framework, which aims to reduce repeat offenses by enhancing the employability of persons deprived of liberty upon their release. The graduation ceremony, held on Thursday, January 30, 2026, marked a pivotal moment for these women, bringing them closer to a fresh start and a brighter future.
Skills Behind Walls: A Path to Employment
The "Skills Behind Walls" housekeeping course, which ran from October to December 2025, provided professional training tailored to the hospitality industry. Designed to equip detainees with practical skills for job opportunities after their release, the program culminated in each graduate receiving a Tesda certificate and an allowance of P8,800. This financial support recognizes their dedication and hard work throughout the intensive 55-day training period, offering both a credential and a tangible incentive for their efforts.
Real-World Training Setup
To ensure the training was of the highest quality, a special mock hotel room was constructed within the jail's female dormitory. Modeled after a Superior Room at Radisson Blu Cebu, this realistic setup allowed students to practice in an environment that mirrors actual workplace conditions. The course curriculum covered essential aspects of high-end hotel operations, including:
- Professional room cleaning and precise bed-making techniques.
- Strict sanitation and safety protocols to meet industry standards.
- Workplace discipline and high-quality customer service skills.
This hands-on experience was made possible through a collaborative partnership involving the Office of Cebu City Representative Rachel Marguerite "Cutie" del Mar, Radisson Blu Cebu, Tesda, and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).
Community Support and Encouragement
Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival attended the graduation ceremony to offer his support and encouragement to the graduates. In his speech, he highlighted the importance of these skills in helping the women rebuild their lives and successfully reintegrate into the community. Mayor Archival shared an inspiring message, stating, "There's a saying that goes, 'It only takes a spark to get the fire going.' What you are doing right now is the spark, and you need to make sure that the spark will continue to glow." He emphasized that, even while incarcerated, these women remain valued members of the Cebu City family and urged them to apply their newfound knowledge and share it with others.
Impact on Reducing Recidivism
Programs like "Skills Behind Walls" extend beyond mere vocational training; they play a vital role in reducing the likelihood of individuals returning to jail. By providing detainees with real-world skills and recognized certifications, the government is actively working to facilitate their transition to honest employment and self-sufficiency upon regaining freedom. This approach not only benefits the individuals involved but also contributes to broader societal goals of safety and community well-being.
