19 women detainees graduate from Quezon City education program

MANILA, Philippines — Nineteen female detainees in Quezon City recently obtained a college degree under the city government’s “No Woman Left Behind” program.

The beneficiaries obtained a degree in Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship under the program implemented in partnership with the Quezon City University.

QC Mayor Joy Belmonte and Justice Undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez led the graduation ceremony held at the Quezon City Police District headquarters at Camp Karingal, where the QC Jail Female Dormitory is also located.

“It is heartwarming to see that our PDLs (persons deprived of liberty) now have college degrees. This is proof that being in prison is not a barrier to getting an education and achieving one’s dreams,” Belmonte said.

The program provides PDLs with continuing education that will allow them to finish a college degree through blended learning or a combination of face-to-face and online classes.

One of the 19 graduates has been convicted, 12 are still detained with ongoing cases, six have been released and completed the program online, according to the local government.

The graduates are eligible to avail themselves of the city government’s Pang­kabuhayang QC assistance program and Tindahan ni Ate Joy program.

They can also apply for employment through the QC Public Employment Services Office once released from detention.