TUPAD program gives jobs to 125 Antique inmates

In a move to support rehabilitation and reintegration, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Office 6 partnered with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and the local government unit of San Jose, Antique to provide employment for 125 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program.

The PDL-beneficiaries engaged in various community-based tasks such as landscaping, gardening, public space maintenance, and minor construction inside the jail compound.

These activities aimed to enhance the facility while instilling discipline, productivity and work-ready skills the PDLs can use after their release.

Through TUPAD, the PDLs were able to earn an income while in custody — a chance for many of them to continue supporting their families.

The program reflects the Marcos administration’s commitment to inclusive rehabilitation through livelihood initiatives.

The payout held on Oct. 9, 2025, featured messages of encouragement and support from key officials and stakeholders.

Acting Warden JCINSP Dever D. Fantilaga opened the program by stressing the importance of partnerships in driving transformation and rehabilitation inside correctional facilities.

San Jose de Buenavista Mayor Atty. Paul Joseph N. Untaran praised the initiative for upholding human dignity and promoting rehabilitation from within the justice system.

TUPAD Regional Focal April Anz Nabor, representing DOLE RO 6, reiterated the department’s goal of delivering inclusive employment opportunities for vulnerable groups, including PDLs.

DOLE RO 6 Regional Director Atty. Sixto T. Rodriguez Jr. sent a message highlighting the agency’s commitment to restorative justice and inclusive development.

Rodriguez emphasized that programs like TUPAD reaffirm DOLE’s belief that “every person deserves a chance to rebuild, to work and to live with dignity.”

Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Manager Ma. Fe T. Salvani thanked all partner agencies and institutions for their shared dedication to improving lives behind bars.

The collaboration between DOLE, BJMP and the LGU of San Jose, Antique stands as a model for rehabilitation through livelihood and empowerment.

It also serves as a reminder that even within confinement, hope and opportunity can flourish — and that second chances can lead to brighter futures.