Prison agency seeks for more support, visitors in jail

After the success of its organized “Operation Bunot” (a simultaneous free tooth extraction and HIV Screening) to more than 567 detainees at the Davao City Jail facilities last October 17-19, the Archdiocesan Commission on Prison Welfare (ACPW) is grateful for the support of all the government agencies, private and religious groups such as the Department of Health, City Health Office, AFP, PNP, DILG, Phil. Dental Society of Davao, DMI-San Pablo Parish, DMA-St. Francis of Assisi Maa, private donors, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, and ACPW member organizations. The said project brought relief and peace of mind to the inmates who suffered dental and anxiety problems against the presence of HIV virus.

ACPW Spiritual Director Fr. Chris Ganzon encourages others to extend prayers, moral support and assistance especially on the occasion of the Prison Awareness Sunday. “Unta muhatag pud ta ug sense of responsibility. Tinuod nakasala sila, but they are also humans. Naa pud untay makabisita and see their condition. We have to show our love, our care for the least, the lost and the last…”

When asked about the agency’s next project, ACPW President Irene Tabada reveals that “Panaygon sa Preso” is coming up on December 10 to 18 this year. “We are inviting choral groups from schools, government offices, and other organizations to serenade the inmates. It aims to increase the prison awareness of the lay. Interested groups may contact me 0923-694-6692 or Marian Raquel,” she adds.

ACPW is one among the pastoral agencies of the Archdiocese of Davao. Its goal is to bring Christ to the abandoned and neglected inmates and facilitate activities that will help, appreciate, develop and strengthen the inmates’ talents, skills and capabilities. It is under the umbrella of CBCP – Episcopal Commission of Prison Pastoral Care. The Commission will culminate the Prison Awareness Week today, while locally, the BJMP will kick-off the National Correctional Consciousness Week tomorrow, October 26. (Cheryl Vilog | Marian Raquel)