300 Manila PDLs graduate from TESDA NC II skills training

February 19, 2026

(Photos courtesy of BJMP-NCR)

By Jenny Red

QUEZON CITY (PIA) — Three hundred Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) from the Manila City Jail – Male Dormitory have successfully completed the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) NC II training, a milestone that strengthens their prospects for livelihood and reintegration.

The program covered Tile Setting and Hilot Wellness Massage, equipping participants with nationally recognized skills.

The graduation ceremony was graced by key leaders: JCSUPT Baby Noel P. Montalvo, Regional Director of Bureau of Jail Management and Penology-National Capital Region (BJMP-NCR); JSUPT Guerrero Victorio M. Dionco, Chief of the Regional Welfare and Development Division; and Ms. Jaclyn Vidal, TESDA Specialist III, representing Mr. John Paul Ramos, Acting Director of TESDA.

The program was initiated by JSUPT Michelle N. Bonto, City Warden of Manila City Jail – Male Dormitory, whose dedication to rehabilitation and skills development continues to open doors for PDLs.

For many graduates, the training was more than just a certificate; it was a lifeline.

“Ang natanggap kong NC II Certificate ay malaking tulong sa aking pag-a-apply ng trabaho, lalo na kung ako man ay magkakaroon ng pagkakataong makapagtrabaho sa ibang bansa pag ako’y nakalaya na,” shared Axel, a graduate of Batch 21 in Hilot Wellness NC II Training.

He added that the program allowed him to remain productive while in detention, sharpen his skills, and prepare for reintegration into society.

“Taos-puso po akong nagpapasalamat sa BJMP at sa TESDA, sa pamamagitan ng TechVoc Skills Inc., sa pagbibigay sa akin ng pagkakataong ito na magkaroon ng mas magandang kinabukasan at oportunidad sa trabaho pag ako’y nakalaya na.”

This initiative reflects BJMP-NCR’s broader vision: rehabilitation through education and vocational training. By equipping PDLs with TESDA-certified skills, the program not only enhances employability but also fosters dignity, productivity, and hope for a second chance at life. (JRR/PIA-NCR)