Bobon: Persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Northern Samar Provincial Jail in Bobon, Northern Samar, have begun baking bread and pastries under a new livelihood initiative called 'Panaderia sa Selda.'

According to Philippines News Agency, the project forms part of the Northern Samar provincial government's broader skills enhancement and livelihood program for vulnerable sectors. The PDLs' association received ovens, baking tools, kitchen equipment, and initial supplies to jumpstart operations.

Participants completed a comprehensive baking and pastry training program that provided hands-on instruction in proper measurement, dough preparation, oven timing, and maintaining product consistency. The training was supervised by Jail Management Officer Carlito Dela Rosa, along with jail personnel, to ensure adherence to quality and operational standards. The initiative was implemented under the guidance of OIC Provincial Warden Jay Keenson Acebuche.

The program supports the administration's inclusive growth agenda, which promotes sustainable livelihood opportunities for all Northern Samar residents, particularly underprivileged sectors such as PDLs, empowering them and providing meaningful second chances. "The initiative is designed not only to generate livelihood opportunities but also to instill discipline, teamwork, and responsibility among participants. The practical skills acquired through the program are expected to improve their employability and reintegration prospects upon release," Acebuche said in a statement Monday.

The project has also been integrated into programs supported by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority to further strengthen competencies and align training with national certification standards.