In a momentous ceremony, 19 female persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Quezon City Jail Female Dormitory received their hard-earned college diplomas, marking a pivotal moment not only in education but also in hope and empowerment for women seeking brighter futures.

Department of Justice (DOJ) Undersecretary Margarita Gutierrez served as the Guest of Honor and Speaker, highlighting the transformative nature of the graduates’ achievements.

“This moment is not merely the culmination of your hard work and perseverance; it represents a pivotal transformation in your lives, a chance to rewrite your narratives and embrace new possibilities,” she stated.

Usec Gutierrez emphasized the strength and resilience of Filipinas, saying, “Bilang mga kababaihan, kayo ay sumasalamin sa diwa ng determinasyon at pag-asa. Ang inyong paglalakbay ay nagpapaalala sa ating lahat na bawat isa, anuman ang nakaraan o kasarian, ay may karapatang bumangon, magbago, umunlad at magsimulang muli.”

She then encouraged the graduates to pounce on the opportunity to make their lives better and contribute to the betterment of their communities.

“Today, you are not just graduates; you are role models, trailblazers, and advocates for change. Nawa’y ang inyong mga kwento ay magsilbing inspirasyon sa iba upang maniwala sa kanilang halaga at potensyal, at nawa’y palagi kayong tumayo para sa karapatan at dignidad ng lahat ng kababaihan,” she said.

The female PDLs earned a Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship through the Alternative Learning System program, a collaboration among the Quezon City Government, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, and Quezon City University.

In her speech, Undersecretary Gutierrez also praised the Quezon City Government, led by Mayor Joy Belmonte, for its commitment to the rehabilitation and reintegration of PDLs and for empowering women in challenging circumstances.