DMMMSU – Open University System (DOUS), in partnership with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Regional Office 1 (BJMP RO1), conducted a Career Guidance Session for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) under the College Education Behind Bars program on March 4, 2025.

The initiative aims to support the rehabilitation and reintegration of PDLs by providing access to higher education. Prof. Claudia Denise P. Barbadillo, DOUS Guidance Counselor and Head of Extension emphasized the role of education in transforming lives, highlighting the flexible learning modalities that allow PDLs to pursue their studies despite incarceration.

Dr. Romeo S. Opeña, Training Chief for Continuing Professional Education, discussed the benefits of specialized training programs designed to meet the needs of PDLs. He stressed that acquiring new skills and knowledge could improve their chances of successful reintegration into society.

As the distance education arm of DMMMSU, DOUS ensures that PDLs who pass the admission test can avail of free higher education as provided for by the Republic Act 10931, also known as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act.

Through this initiative, DMMMSU-DOUS and BJMP RO1 reaffirm their commitment to inclusive education, providing PDLs with opportunities to build a better future through learning. (By Claudia Denise P. Barbadillo)