It’s not every day you witness a room full of people moved by both song and spirit in one of the most unexpected places—the Maximum Security Compound of New Bilibid Prison. But that’s exactly what happened on October 5, 2024, when PJPS staff, volunteers, and Bukas Palad Music Ministry collaborated for a heartwarming music workshop and mini concert for the Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) Chapel Choirs.
As the sun shone over Muntinlupa City, the Bukas Palad team brought a different kind of light into the compound, and it wasn’t just about hitting the right notes or perfecting harmonies. This event was about connection, healing, and hope for both the choir members and the ministry.
Music That Breaks Barriers
The day kicked off with a lively music ministry workshop. The PDL Chapel Choirs, often hidden behind walls, were given a chance to refine their voices and learn from the best. More than just technical skills, the workshop became a bridge—a way to connect hearts through music. The songs sung that day were not just melodies but prayers for healing and redemption.
As Meri from Bukas Palad shared,
“Of all the workshops I’ve attended, this is the best engagement experience. It’s the most sincere, and it’s the most amount of crying. It’s interesting because they’re all grown men. They appear tough, but when you talk to them, they are soft.”
Testimonies of Grace
The music workshop was then followed by a mini-concert that was nothing short of magical. As both the PDL Choirs and The Bukas Palad Music Ministry performed, the chapel was filled with love and light. It was a moment of peace for everyone, proving that even in the darkest of places, music can shine through.
Throughout the event, it became clear that music wasn’t the only thing shared that day. There were heartfelt moments that touched everyone’s soul.
Ryan, a PDL choir member, expressed this beautifully:
"Sa aking pagkakakulong, na-realize ko na ang mga bakod at pader sa paligid ay Pader ng Paglalambing ng Panginoon sa akin."
(It was in my imprisonment that I realized the walls and fences surrounding me are the Lord’s tender embrace.)
Meanwhile, Jennifer from Bukas Palad reflected on the powerful experience of giving and receiving:
"Nabuksan po ang mata ko. We have gained far more than what we have given."
"(The experience was truly eye-opening.) We have gained far more than what we have given."
The event wasn’t just an outreach for the PDL patients, but a reminder for everyone involved of the deep connection we all share through service, love, and faith.
A Visit of Compassion
After the workshop and mini-concert, the team visited the PDL patients who were ill and in critical condition at the hospital within the same camp. It was an emotional journey, where the power of presence spoke louder than words. For those suffering from sickness, the team’s visit was a sign that they were not forgotten. The sight of the volunteers and the Bukas Palad members serenading them with soothing songs brought tears to their eyes and comfort to their hearts.
With each note, they not only serenaded the PDL patients but also reminded everyone that healing comes in many forms—and sometimes, it’s carried through a song.
Serenade of Hope
The event wasn’t just an outreach for the PDLs at the Maximum Security Camp, but more a reminder for everyone involved about the deep connection we all share through service, love, and faith. It was truly the song Amare et Servire in the flesh.
Maria Luisa, a CIS and PJPS volunteer, was deeply moved:
"Sobrang nagagalak ako na nakasama sa araw na ito."
(I am so overjoyed to have been a part of this day.)
It is this deep joy and shared humanity that defines the work of PJPS and its mission partners like Bukas Palad. Together, they aren’t just changing lives—they’re creating ripples of hope, one song at a time.
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