Bicol fun run raises funds for female inmates

By Keren Anne Bernadas

LEGAZPI CITY --- Women empowerment was alive and well in this province as hundreds of runners from different organizations and the general public took part in a fun run organized by the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) to raise funds for female jail inmates or women deprived of liberty.

With over a thousand participants, the run took place at Sawangan Park in Legazpi City and successfully raised a total of P160,000 that will benefit female inmates in Bicol jails.

According to BJMP Regional Director Elena Rocamora, the funds raised from the charity run will support the bureau’s developmental programs for 184 female persons deprived of liberty (PDL) incarcerated in various jails across the region.

Ruth Manuel Castor, the BJMP information officer for Bicol, said that part of the funds will be allocated to finance the college education of a former female PDL who is pursuing a degree in tourism management at the Southern Luzon Technological College Foundation Inc.

Castor noted that the BJMP planned to provide equipment and materials to enhance the production of goods in several facilities, including the Bread of Love Bakeshop at the Tabaco City District Jail, the dream catcher shop at the Naga City District Jail Female Dorm, industrial ceilings from the Iriga City Female Dorm, and kneaded products from the Legazpi City Jail Pan Delaya.

“We prioritize improving health, access to education, and technical enhancement programs for our female PDLs,” she said.

The BJMP will allocate the remaining funds for distributing toiletries and food packages to female PDLs.

“This fundraising event brings hope and inspiration to female PDLs and demonstrates the trust that men have in their ability to change and lead better lives,” said Nemrad Española from the Department of Public Works and Highways, highlighting the significant number of male participants.

Lovely Cordovilla, one of the top finishers in the 5-kilometer run, noted that the charity race was a “great opportunity to celebrate and enjoy the month dedicated to women through a fitness activity.”

Rikka Mae Villalodid, a runner from Sorsogon City, said: “This event inspired me to elevate pride fr women.” (PIA5)

All pride for women’s month. A rate of 85 percent females of over 1,000 participants joined in the BJMP Fun Run last Women’s Month to advocate for women empowerment and gender equality. Photo courtesy of BJMP Bicol