Inside the walls of BJMP San Carlos City District Jail, a quiet yet powerful transformation is taking place. For persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), the path to rehabilitation is often uncertain, but through a sewing livelihood initiative, they are rediscovering purpose, dignity, and financial independence.
Beyond the confinement of their cells, they are stitching their way toward a brighter future—one seam at a time.
Empowering lives through sustainable livelihood
For many PDLs, the key to a successful reintegration into society lies in learning practical skills that provide a sustainable source of income. Engaging in sewing not only offers financial support but also fosters self-worth, discipline, and a renewed sense of purpose—critical elements in their rehabilitation.
Recognizing this, San Carlos Sun Power, Inc. (Sacasun), managed by Hedcor, an AboitizPower renewable energy asset manager, in partnership with Aboitiz Foundation, introduced and nurtured a sewing livelihood initiative designed to equip PDLs with skills that will help them rebuild their lives.
With sewing starter kits, including four sewing machines and materials, the initiative enables PDLs to create bags, pillowcases, pajamas, and children’s shorts, items that are not just practical but also symbolic of their journey toward change.
Through the support of San Carlos City LGU, Public Employment Services Office (PESO), and TESDA, PDLs receive hands-on training to further enhance their sewing expertise. Their handcrafted products are showcased and sold at the BJMP facility during visitation schedules, at the City Hall Pasalubong Center, and during festivals and bazaars. While not yet available online, they are promoted via official social media platforms of the LGU and BJMP, increasing visibility for their work.
A Stitch in Time: Stories of Transformation
For Jerome, a PDL who was once a tailor, the program has rekindled his passion for sewing. Every day, he completes three to four bags, each selling for PHP250-PHP350, generating income that supports his family.
“Nalipay ko nga nakabalik ko sa pagpanahi kay mao ni akong trabaho kaniadto. Karon, bisag naa ko diri, magamit gihapon nako akong abilidad, ug ang ginansya makatabang sa akong pamilya,” he shares. (I am happy to be sewing again because this was my job before. Now, even while inside, I can still use my skills, and the earnings help support my family.)
Similarly, Jalen, a mother and fellow PDL, sews pillowcases and has expanded her work to making pajamas and children’s shorts, priced at PHP45 to PHP65. The opportunity has allowed her to contribute financially to her children’s needs.
“Nalipay ko sa suporta nga gihatag sa Sacasun ug Aboitiz Foundation. Karon, mas daghan na among matahi, mas dako among kita, ug mas daghan mi matabangan, labi na among pamilya,” she says. (I am grateful for the support provided by Sacasun and Aboitiz Foundation. Now, we can sew more items, earn more, and help our families even better.)
Empowering PDLs for a Fresh Start
This initiative is about more than just livelihood—it’s about empowerment, redemption, and the chance to start anew. With skills training from TESDA and practical experience, PDLs are equipped to pursue meaningful opportunities beyond incarceration.
Assistant Warden Mary Jane Zamora highlights the program’s long-term impact, “Through livelihood opportunities, PDLs gain skills they can use once they are released. This project gives them a chance to start over and even teach others the craft of sewing.”
This initiative reflects the efforts of its key partners to empower individuals through self-sufficiency. Rolando Pacquiao, President and COO of Hedcor, emphasizes, “By supporting PDLs with livelihood opportunities, we are not just helping them earn—we are giving them a second chance to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society.”
Through every stitch, every product, and every sale, these PDLs prove that transformation is possible—that opportunities, like hope, can be sewn even in the most unexpected places.
With continued support, their skills will not only sustain them today but also serve as a foundation for a future filled with dignity, independence, and a renewed sense of purpose.
