By Rachel Magday
NUEVA VIZCAYA, Philippines — The Nueva Vizcaya provincial government is investing ₱35 million to modernize the Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Jail (NVPJ), with Gov. Jose V. Gambito aiming to transform the facility into a rehabilitation and skills training center that equips persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) with livelihood opportunities and practical skills for successful reintegration into society.
During a recent visit to the provincial jail, Gambito encouraged inmates to maintain good behavior, learn from their mistakes, and actively participate in programs designed to help them rebuild their lives.
The governor acknowledged that people sometimes make wrong decisions and commit offenses but stressed that these mistakes should not be repeated. He encouraged the PDLs to pursue genuine reform not only for themselves but, more importantly, for their families.
Gambito also urged them to remain steadfast in their faith in God, saying the difficulties they are experiencing are temporary and will eventually come to an end.
He assured the PDLs that the provincial government is committed to a safer, more humane, and rehabilitation‑focused facility. Beyond physical upgrades, Gambito said the province will expand rehabilitation, livelihood, and skills programs so inmates can earn an income while serving their sentences and be better prepared for reintegration upon release.
Provincial Warden Carmelo Andrada said the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has been providing vocational skills training to inmates. Some qualified PDLs have also benefited from employment opportunities under the Department of Labor and Employment’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program.
Livelihood initiatives funded by the Office of the Governor likewise allow qualified inmates to engage in productive activities and earn additional income while serving their sentences.
To further improve inmate welfare, the provincial government this year increased the daily food allowance for each PDL from ₱60 to ₱75, enabling the jail to provide more nutritious meals, Andrada said.
The modernization program also includes ₱25 million for the renovation and improvement of the jail’s administration building, main facility, and housing areas for inmates.
An additional ₱10 million has been approved for the construction of a new perimeter fence featuring a Spanish-inspired, Intramuros-style design. The provincial jail is also set to receive a new multipurpose vehicle to enhance its operations and transportation services.
Andrada thanked Gambito for his continued support, saying it has helped improve conditions at the provincial jail..
He said these initiatives will help transform the Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Jail into a secure, humane, and rehabilitation-oriented facility where persons deprived of liberty can acquire valuable life and livelihood skills before returning to their families and communities.
