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𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞: 𝐏𝐃𝐋 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐧 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲

In a rare and inspiring moment, two Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) from the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Urdaneta City proudly walked across the stage in their abarays during the 46th Commencement Exercises of Pangasinan State University on August 14, 2025.

The graduates, who completed their Bachelor of Industrial Technology degrees majoring in Electrical Technology and Electrical Communication Technology, earned their qualifications under PSU-Asingan’s Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP).

For years, BJMP’s education programs focused mainly on Alternative Learning System (ALS) and TESDA courses. But through the collaborative efforts of PSU-Asingan and BJMP-Urdaneta, the initiative has now expanded—offering college-level opportunities to PDLs.

“Inclusivity in education is not just a principle—it’s a promise. At Pangasinan State University, we believe every individual, regardless of circumstances, deserves the chance to learn, grow, and succeed,” said Dr. Elbert M. Galas, University President, as he commended the achievement of the PDL graduates.

Under the directives of Jail Chief Inspector Randy A. Batay-An, JO3 Matia Rhealyn Parayno of BJMP-Urdaneta, who has been actively supporting educational programs for PDLs, was present to witness the milestone.

“Seeing our PDLs earn their college degrees is proof that education truly transforms lives,” said JO3 Parayno. “We are committed to giving them the chance to learn, improve themselves, and prepare for a better future once they return to society.”

One of the graduates, fondly called “Kuya Robert” (not his real name), described the experience as life-changing.

“It’s a great opportunity that should not be missed. I realized that getting a degree is never too late. No matter what your status in life is, you can still finish your studies—it’s just about finding the right people to help you,” he shared.

Kuya Robert expressed his deep gratitude to Pangasinan State University for creating an accessible and effective program, and to his professors at PSU-Asingan for their patient guidance throughout his modules. He also extended thanks to BJMP-Urdaneta, especially the jail wardens, for facilitating communication with PSU and processing the necessary documents for his enrollment.

This achievement stands as a beacon of hope—not only for the graduates but for every individual who believes that education can open doors, even for those behind bars. It proves that with determination, support, and the right opportunities, change and growth are always possible.