BRIDGING OPPORTUNITY BEHIND BARS: DOLE BATANGAS EQUIPS LIPA CITY JAIL PDLs WITH CAREER READINESS SKILLSET, LABOR STANDARDS INFORMATION

In line with its commitment to inclusive labor programs, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Office No. IV-A, through its Batangas Provincial Office, facilitated a specialized employment session for 33 Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at the Lipa City Jail – Male Dormitory on July 29, 2026. 

The 33 Persons Deprive of Liberty during the lecture of DOLE (Photo by Leomar De Torres/ DOLE BPO)

This initiative directly aligns with the key priority programs of DOLE Secretary Francis N. Tolentino, who has consistently underscored the mandate to ensure that no Filipino worker is left behind in the pursuit of decent and meaningful work. 

Through the delivery of comprehensive employability enhancement lectures, DOLE officers focused on bridging the transitional gap by providing PDLs with direct access to tailored labor market opportunities. Alongside career assistance, the initiative prioritized holistic skills development discussions by delivering essential soft skills training and workforce readiness modules, which served as key components in fostering a smooth and productive return to society.

During the activity, Ms. Ricaela Salazar, Labor and Employment Officer II, served as a resource speaker and discussed the fundamental concepts of General Labor Standards (GLS). Ms. Salazar’s presentation covered critical workplace rights, statutory benefits, minimum wage regulations, occupational safety standards, and formal employment terms. Furthermore, her discussion aimed to inform the participants of their rights as future formal sector workers and help them navigate fair labor practices upon their release. 

Ms. Ricaela F. Salazar on her discussion on the General Labor Standards (Photo by Leomar De Torres/ DOLE BPO)

Meanwhile, Mr. Leomar C. De Torres, Program Coordinator, presented the core components of the Career Development Support Program (CDSP). He  focused on career planning, personal development, job readiness strategies, and effective workplace communication. 

Mr. De Torres provided actionable insights to help the participants build personal confidence, align their individual skills with industry demands, and outline clear career goals for their eventual integration into the regional labor force.

Mr. Leomar De Torres on his discussion on the Career Development and Support Program (Photo Janine Lansangan/ DOLE BPO)

DOLE Speakers and Representatives, Jail Officers of BJMP Lipa Male Dorm with the 33 PDL’s (Photo Contributed for Official Documentation)

Through the continuous implementation of these interventions, DOLE Batangas reinforces its dedication to empowering PDLs with practical knowledge, social dignity, and economic opportunities. 

By strengthening community-based labor support networks, the department remains committed to helping former PDLs transition into productive, self-reliant members of society.

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