SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, ANTIQUE - The 'Holistic Opportunities and People's Empowerment' (HOPE) project, initiated by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), is providing 25 individuals deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in Antique with the chance to complete their college education.
According to Philippines news Agency, the HOPE project, a part of the Community Empowerment Through Science and Technology (CEST) program, aims to foster human resource development by offering PDLs the opportunity to pursue higher education through blended learning in collaboration with the University of Antique (UA).
The project, which was officially launched on Wednesday, has received a funding of PHP2.5 million from the DOST for its implementation. Starting in August, UA will begin offering a Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship to qualified PDLs who have completed senior high school or are already at the college level. UA President Dr. Pablo Crespo Jr. highlighted that the initiative also includes provisions for PDLs to continue their education on campus upon their release from BJMP custody. Additionally, the university plans to offer vocational courses such as baking, air-conditioning, and electrical installation and maintenance for those who do not meet the criteria for college admission.
Beyond education, the CEST project encompasses livelihood or economic enterprise development to enable PDLs enrolled in short courses to engage in marketing activities with the assistance of university students, thereby generating income to support their families. The DOST's contribution extends to providing a water filtration system for potable water at the BJMP and a remote monitoring medical device for PDLs to check their vital signs, addressing health and nutrition needs. The project also includes efforts in environmental protection and conservation, solid waste management, and the provision of information boards and materials for disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation.
The memorandum of agreement for the HOPE project was signed by BJMP Regional Director Jail Chief Supt. Simeon Dolojo Jr., San Jose de Buenavista Mayor Elmer Untaran, Antique Rep. Antonio Agapito Legarda, Gelonga, and Crespo, cementing the collaborative effort to empower PDLs through education and community support.