The residents of Children’s Village for Boys – Bahay Pag-Asa (BPA) had their educational field trip this semester at Davao City Jail and Davao City Female Jail last April 4, 2017, Tuesday. With the help of the City Government of Davao, and the Tugbok Police District, they were able to successfully enrich their social skills and foster friendship among one another. They also learned about the current social issues happening outside of the center, and become aware of the situations of inmates.
The program for the entire day began with an orientation by the Center Social Worker Ms. Fulgencia T. Autida, RSW, and then a prayer followed. Escorted by the Tugbok Police District, the BPA staff and residents proceeded to the Davao City Jail where they observed the difficult situations the inmates were in such as the confinement of 3,050 people in the facility fit for only 300, and toured permitted areas like where the livelihood is manufactured. Then they advanced to Davao City Female Jail (Ray of Hope Village) where they were heartily welcomed by the inmates who make coin purses, bags made of twine, and other products by hand, which were bought by the staff and even the police escorts. They were even presented a short program, which inspired them to respond with a song of their own. After expressing their gratitude, they moved on to Michiko Garden Resort, Bago Aplaya for lunch, socialization and swimming.
The BPA residents reflected on their trip and came to many realizations. They understood that life in jail is never easy, and that they are fortunate to be living in Bahay Pag-Asa. To those who have family members in jail, they promised to never get to that level . To grow up with parents, siblings, and other relatives in jail without getting the love, care, and support they need from those people is difficult. When they have families on their own, they don’t want to inflict that kind of pain to their children. They added that although being outside of BPA made them feel happy and free, their life in the center is a second chance given to them to do the right thing, make new friends, and form better future.
We the staff of Bahay Pag-asa, on behalf of the residents, would like to thank the City Mayor’s Office for providing the lunch and transportation for the activity, and the police officers from the Tugbok Police District who escorted the children and staff and ensured their safety throughout the duration of the trip. Last but not the least, we wish to convey our warmest gratitude to the inmates for being hospitable, that truly touches our hearts.
- Bahay Pag-Asa, Kris Salomon