25 PDLs complete Animal Production training through SU TEVEC-TESDA partnership
Twenty-five persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) graduated from a 29-day training program in Animal Production (Poultry-Chicken) National Certificate (NC) II during the 46th Graduation Day Ceremony of Silliman University’s Technical Educational Vocational and Entrepreneurial Center (TEVEC) on September 3, 2026, at the Negros Oriental Detention and Rehabilitation Center (NODRC) in Dumaguete City.
The training was conducted by TEVEC, under the leadership of its head, Blanchie M. Utzurrum, in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). John Albert B. Ungson served as the program trainer.
In his message, TESDA Provincial Director Fletcher B. Gumahad emphasized that technical-vocational education and training should be accessible to everyone, including those inside correctional facilities.
Gumahad said the program reflects the government’s commitment to providing opportunities for PDLs to gain knowledge and skills that can help them prepare for their eventual reintegration into society.
He also recognized Silliman University for partnering with TESDA in providing skills training at the NODRC, noting that such programs can contribute to positive change by equipping PDLs with practical competencies and livelihood opportunities.
“Remember, you are being enrolled in a program for food sustainability,” Gumahad told the graduates, emphasizing that they had already acquired knowledge and skills that could be applied after their release.
He encouraged the graduates to use what they learned as they pursue meaningful livelihood opportunities and work toward becoming self-reliant and productive members of society.
One of the graduates, speaking on behalf of the class, described the occasion as a meaningful and memorable milestone and expressed gratitude to TESDA, Silliman University, NODRC, the trainer, and everyone who contributed to the program.
According to him, the training provided more than technical knowledge in poultry production. They learned about proper care and management, feeding practices, disease prevention, sanitation, and biosecurity measures, while also developing values such as responsibility, discipline, patience, teamwork, and perseverance.
“As persons deprived of liberty, our circumstances do not define our worth or our potential,” the graduate said, adding that the knowledge and skills gained through the program represent hope and a second chance for them to prepare for a future in which they can contribute positively to their families and communities.
The class also expressed appreciation to Ungson for patiently guiding them throughout the training and encouraging them to strive for excellence and look beyond their present circumstances.
This is the second graduation ceremony for PDLs at the NODRC, marking another collaborative effort between SU and TESDA to provide technical-vocational education and livelihood-oriented skills to PDLs and support their preparation for eventual reintegration into society. Also present at the ceremony were Renato L. Alcorcon, NODRC assistant warden; Rev. Jonathan M. Cal, SU Church associate minister for Witness and Service; Dr. Warlito S. Caturay Jr., Office of Media and Public Affairs chief; Dr. Ralton D. Bancairen, Office of Registration and Records Management chief; and the TEVEC faculty and staff.
