The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in Mandaue City is taking a significant step towards rehabilitation by preparing to launch a 'College Behind Bars' program in 2026. This initiative will allow qualified persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) to pursue college degrees while serving their sentences.
Preparing the Ground for Higher Learning
Jail Superintendent Warden Jessie Gingoyon explained that preparations are already underway. The initiative involves constructing new facilities and renovating the existing Alternative Learning System (ALS) classroom within the city jail to make it suitable for college-level instruction. This physical upgrade is a foundational step to ensure a conducive learning environment.
The project is being developed under the leadership of Senior Inspector Roselle Paracale, who is spearheading efforts to institutionalize the College Behind Bars program at the Mandaue City Jail. Gingoyon highlighted that work began because Paracale had already started taking action to make this educational opportunity a reality for inmates.
Formalizing Partnerships for a 2026 Launch
To formally establish the program, the BJMP–Mandaue is currently drafting a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with partner institutions. Warden Gingoyon expressed optimism that the program will commence operations within the facility by the coming year. "We are working now on the Memorandum of Agreement. We hope that next year, 2026, there will already be a college operating inside the facility," he stated.
This program is designed for inmates who have completed the K to 12 basic education curriculum. Once eligible, they can enroll in college courses offered within the jail's premises.
Market-Driven Courses for Future Employment
The initial course offerings will focus on practical fields with high employability to assist PDLs in securing jobs upon their release. The first two identified courses are Business Management and Information Technology (IT).
These areas were specifically chosen due to the strong current demand for these skills in the job market. The goal is to equip inmates with relevant, marketable expertise that can facilitate their reintegration into society and reduce recidivism.
The College Behind Bars program is being developed with the support of the Mandaue City local government and Mandaue City College. This collaboration between a correctional agency, local government, and an academic institution marks a progressive approach to inmate rehabilitation and social reintegration in the Philippines.
