In support of Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education) and 10 (Reduced Inequalities), Sorsogon State University and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Regional Office V (BJMP-ROV) officially partnered to launch the College Education Behind Bars (CEBB) program with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on May 28, 2025 at the SorSU Boardroom, Sorsogon City Campus.
The MOA signing officially began with opening remarks from Dr. Jhonner D. Ricafort (Vice President for Academic Affairs). In his message, he said, “As we formalize this partnership, we offer our shared commitment to our mission, where education becomes the key that unlocks human potential, even behind bars. This program is not merely a degree offering, but a manifestation of hope, a roadmap to rehabilitation, and a commitment to nation-building.”
The university, through the College of Business Management (CBM), under the leadership of Prof. Ma. Claire M. Dicen (Dean, College of Business Management, Sorsogon City Campus), proposed a Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship program for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) as a transformative initiative to equip them with business skills, financial literacy, self-sufficiency, and leadership skills. The goal is to support their rehabilitation and reintegration by promoting self-sufficiency and economic independence.
In response, JSSUPT Elena B. Rocamora, PhD, said, “We are grateful to Sorsogon State University for this incredible partnership. Indeed, SorSU truly personifies the advocacy of a Pamantasang May Puso. We reaffirm our dedication to this collective purpose-to unceasingly cooperate and collaborate for the furtherance of our service. Kami po ay buong puso at lakas na makikiisa sa pamunuan ng Sorsogon State University upang ating matugunan ang hangarin natin.”
Further, SUC President III, Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus underscored the transformative power of education and the university’s unwavering commitment to providing education to PDLs. In her address, she remarked, “I would like to assure you that we are fully committed to accomplishing this collaborative project in the best way we can. As an institution for higher learning, it is our mission to promote quality education among Sorsoguenos and all Filipinos-whatever their status in life.”
The ceremonial signing concluded with words of gratitude from Dr. Telesforo D. Escoto (Campus Director, Sorsogon City Campus). In attendance at the event were Dr. Ma. Elena C. Demdam (Campus Director, Bulan Campus), Dr. Diana V. Sales (Dean, College of Business Management Education, Bulan Campus), and Mr. Bryan O. Fruto (Program Chair, BS Entrepreneurship).
Also present during the ceremony were officials from BJMP, including JCINSP Remedios N. Remedios (Chief, Welfare and Development Division, BJMP-ROV), JINSP Ampon G. Gestre (Provincial Jail Administrator, Sorsogon BJMP), JCINSP Louie Angelo C. Ungria (Acting Warden, Sorsogon City District Jail), and JSINSP Richard Ryan B. Molato (Acting Warden, Irosin District Jail).
This partnership between SorSU and BJMP-ROV stands as a testament to both institutions’ commitment to education, rehabilitation, and the holistic development of individuals, regardless of their circumstances. (SorSU PIO)
