Inmates in San Teodoro, Oriental Mindoro, are now equipped with new skills as 25 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) completed TESDA's Construction Painting NC II training under its Community-Based Training Program in partnership with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).

The 25-day program, held from August 30 to September 25, aimed to prepare detainees for the construction industry after their release.

Provincial Technical Center (PTC) trainers taught essential skills, including surface preparation and painting techniques for wood, concrete, drywall, and metal surfaces.

Acting Jail Warden Alfonso Nacino Jr. said the training helps PDLs gain technical-vocational skills, boosting their chances of employment locally and abroad.

Welfare and Development Officer Patrick John De Guzman added that the training increases their employability with the NC II qualification from TESDA.

"The program is a huge help as employers for the construction sector will consider hiring our PDLs with their acquired basic and common competencies and their NC II qualification from TESDA," De Guzman said.

BJMP MIMAROPA assured the public that more skills training initiatives will follow, supporting the government’s efforts to provide access to livelihood and employment opportunities for inmates.