ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office IX (DOLE 9) thru its Zamboanga City Field Office (ZCFO) in coordination with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) turned over a livelihood project on Garments Manufacturing to 88 skilled inmates of Zamboanga Association of Skilled and Trained Inmates (ZASTI) at Zamboanga City Jail on November 9, 2018.

Director Ofelia B. Domingo of DOLE 9 said that the project aims to prepare Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) for their eventual reintegration into the mainstream of society, improve productivity of the inmates during confinement period and help them sustain their family’s needs while they are inside the facility.

In line with BJMP’s Inmates Welfare Development Program (IWDP), DOLE 9 approved the project proposal with a budget amounting to PHP 913,142.80 to cover common service facilities, equipment and supplies.

Jail Chief Inspector Nathanel l. Aljas of BJMP said that DOLE is the first agency to respond to the needs of inmates on livelihood formation and thus they are grateful for the assistance extended.

Director Domingo further said that DOLE will support the project of ZASTI by including them in Trade Fairs, Project Angel Tree product showcases and other livelihood fairs in and out of the City. To further strengthen the commitment between ZASTI and DOLE, the parties entered into a Memorandum of Agreement.

DOLE 9 Technical Support and Services Division (TSSD) Chief Wesley D. Tan oriented the inmates on the salient features of relevant DOLE programs and services highlighting DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP). Meanwhile, Supervising Labor and Employment Officer Makaraya Adil discussed Occupational Safety and Health topics focusing on practical tips and procedures in handling equipment.

ZASTI, thru its President, Mr. Ian Flores, expressed their gratitude to DOLE 9 and BJMP for the trust and support to PDLs and hopes that with the assistance, they will be able to increase their productivity. END/With reports from Emma Lim, DOLE-ZCFO