With the Christmas season fostering a time of sharing, compassion, and meaningful connection, the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 1 – Ilocos Region (DSWD FO 1) conducted a Kumustahan Session cum Information Caravan for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Dagupan City – Female Dormitory on December 9, 2025. 

Following the Memorandum of Agreement signed between DSWD and BJMP Region I, this activity aimed at strengthening the partnership in delivering responsive and coordinated social welfare programs and services for PDLs and their families.

A total of 82 PDLs participated in discussions on the various DSWD programs, particularly those that may support them and their families during and after incarceration. PDLs then raised questions on family welfare, health conditions, and their plans and hopes for reintegration in an open forum.

PDLs displayed received essential kits and recreational materials alongside DSWD staff and STPD Chief Clarivel Banzuela

DSWD FO 1 Special Concerns Unit Head Sheryl J. Bringas expressed her delight connecting with PDLs and giving them the platform to share their stories as well as facts about the Department’s initiatives. “Ang aktibidad na ito ay hindi lamang pagkakataon para magbahagi ng impormasyon, kundi para makinig din sa kanilang mga concerns at mga pangarap para sa kanilang pamilya at sa kanilang pagbalik sa komunidad,” she mentioned.

After the discussions, hygiene kits were distributed to ensure PDLs have basic personal care essentials for everyday use, and sports materials to encourage recreation and physical activity inside the facility, directly supporting their well-being and daily life.

As the lead agency in social protection, DSWD reassures in extending assistance to every sector it serves that they are valued and supported by programs that can make a difference in their lives. (DSWD FO 1 – Ilocos Region)