Bucor expressed heartfelt gratitude for generous donation of learning materials and equipment

In a significant event held at the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City, Bureau of Corrections Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. expressed his heartfelt gratitude towards Mr. Ramon Ang, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of San Miguel Corporation, along with his daughter, Cecile Ang, who heads the SMC Foundation.

Their generous donation of learning materials and equipment is aimed at enhancing the educational experience for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) within the minimum security compound.

During the turnover ceremony for the newly renovated college building, Catapang emphasized the importance of providing a comfortable and conducive learning environment for PDLs eager to study and improve their lives.

Highlighting the longstanding partnership with the University of Perpetual Help Systems Dalta, Catapang acknowledged its pivotal role in the reformation of PDLs through education since the 1980s.

The commitment has borne fruit, with 1,072 PDLs successfully completing college education.

Justice Karl Miranda of the Sandiganbayan also received commendation for his unwavering dedication to teaching PDL college students, illustrating the collaborative efforts needed to facilitate rehabilitation.

Cecile Ang shared her enthusiasm for the SMC Foundation’s participation in this transformative initiative, reaffirming a commitment to social causes, including education and environmental stewardship.

She voiced hope that the rehabilitative changes—mirrored by the physical transformation of school buildings—would inspire PDLs to believe that they could indeed change their lives.

“Itong pagbabago na ito, katulad ng transformation ng school buildings ay maging gabay at maging simula ng paniniwala natin na Kaya nating baguhin ang ating buhay,” Ang said.

She also added that what he learned from his dad who is an orphan is discipline “na kung kayang pagbutihin ay may mararating.”

Justice Miranda further elaborated on the goal of these efforts, underscoring that they prepare PDLs for successful reintegration into society.

In addition to the P50 million investment in educational facilities, the SMC Foundation has already started late last year the fullfillment of its P100 million worth of food commitment spread over three years made by the elder Ang.