Today, October 24, 2024, as heavy rains poured across the city, tears of joy flowed from inside the Maximum Security Camp (MaxSeCamp) of New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City. In celebration of the 37th Prison Awareness Week (PAW) and the 30th National Correctional Consciousness Week (NCCW), the Philippine Jesuit Prison Service (PJPS) brought together long-separated families in a momentous reunion through Oplan Dalaw.
The Socio-Pastoral Initiative: Oplan Dalaw
Oplan Dalaw, a project under PJPS's Socio-Pastoral Program, aims to reconnect Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) with their loved ones, particularly those who have been apart for over 15 years. The importance of family ties in the reformation and reintegration of PDLs cannot be overstated. PJPS, with the help of volunteers and benefactors, facilitates these visits and provides the necessary support for these reunions, including transportation, lodging, and other logistical needs for visiting families.
For this year's Oplan Dalaw, PJPS facilitated the reunions of four PDLs with their families from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Many of these families had not been able to visit their loved ones in decades, making the event a powerful and transformative moment for all involved.
Stories of Reunions
Tatay Jojo from Luzon had not seen his family for 22 years. His brother, daughter, and son-in-law traveled from Tuao, Cagayan, and Rizal, Nueva Ecija, to be with him.
For Tatay Jojo’s daughter, this was a particularly emotional moment, as it was the first time she met her father face-to-face.
"Kayo (PJPS) ang tumupad sa matagal ko ng pangarap. Dahil first time ko makita ang Papa ko sa personal,"
she said tearfully.
Tatay Jojo’s brother, Mario, added,
“Gusto ko siyang iuwi na nang mayayakap ko siya, kaya tumulo na lang ang mga luha ko.”
Kuya Rosalino from the Visayas had not been visited by family for 22 years. His sister and uncle traveled from Dumaguete City for this long-awaited reunion. Overcome with emotion, his sister could only express her gratitude through tears.
Jennifer, Rosalino’s niece, shared,
“Nakakaawang makita na ganoon ang sitwasyon niya sa loob (ng bilanguan). Ipinagdarasal ko na makasama na namin siya at ng buong pamilya before life ends.”
Tatay Nana from Mindanao was reunited with his wife and daughter after 15 years of separation. His family traveled from General Santos City to be with him.
Rose, Tatay Nana’s daughter, said,
"PJPS ang naging way ng Panginoon para makasama ko muli ang Papa ko,"
expressing how this opportunity helped fulfill a long-held dream. His wife, Sherli, added,
“Lubos akong nagpapasalamat sa PJPS. Dahil sa inyo, natupad ang matagal ko ng panalangin na makita muli ang aking asawa.”
Moving Forward: A Heartfelt Thank You
PJPS Chaplain, Fr. Bok, captured the essence of the event, emphasizing that “Ang Panginoon ang kumikilos sa ating buhay.” Indeed, the reunions were a testament to the importance of family in the reformation and reintegration process for PDLs. Oplan Dalaw continues to play a critical role in maintaining these vital connections, contributing to the emotional and psychological well-being of the PDLs.
Gratitude to Our Partners
This initiative would not have been possible without the support of the CS Foundation, as well as the dedication of PJPS volunteers and staff. In addition to the families who were able to visit, PJPS volunteers acted as surrogate visitors for other PDLs present at the event, providing support and companionship.
The journey for many of our brothers and sisters inside the Camps is far from over, but through efforts like Oplan Dalaw, they are reminded that they are not alone. With the continued support of volunteers, benefactors, and partners, PJPS will keep striving to bring light into the darkest corners, one family reunion at a time.
We look forward to more moments of reconnection, healing, and hope as we continue our journey alongside the PDLs and their loved ones. Together, we are creating pathways for a brighter future.
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam!
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