By William Agda
Malaybalay City inmates under the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) are crafting Christmas lanterns as part of a rehabilitation initiative aimed at providing productive and creative outlets for persons deprived of liberty (PDL). These handmade lanterns, priced at Php 75 and above depending on customization, are available for purchase.
According to JO1 Loma Vicera, community relations service officer, the lanterns are made using materials such as charol (a durable type of plastic), bamboo, and other indigenous and recycled components. She said over 200 lanterns have already been produced, with production ongoing for custom-made orders.
Vicera explained that 60 percent of the proceeds are reinvested for raw materials and other BJMP projects, while the remaining 40 percent is allocated as income for the inmates. She emphasized that the initiative not only helps fund rehabilitation programs but also allows inmates to earn and learn new skills.
The lanterns are marketed through various platforms, including Facebook live selling, direct messaging, and KADIWA displays in collaboration with the BJMP Regional Welfare and Development Division and the Malaybalay City Economic Enterprise Development and Management Office.