26 Quezon City PDLs earn college degrees through education-behind-bars program

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 04, 2026

Photo courtesy: Philippine Information Agency

QUEZON CITY, Philippines – Twenty-six persons deprived of liberty from the Quezon City Jail Male and Female Dormitories have earned college degrees through a city-backed education program aimed at supporting rehabilitation and reintegration.

The graduates completed the Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship program of Quezon City University during the 2026 commencement exercises, according to the Quezon City government. 

The ceremony marked two milestones for the program: it was the first graduation involving PDLs from both the male and female dormitories, and the first batch of male PDLs to finish the degree course. 

The initiative forms part of the city’s broader education and livelihood support for PDLs, including the No Woman Left Behind and No Juan Left Behind programs.

Quezon City launched its tertiary education initiative for female PDLs in 2022 through a partnership among the city government, Quezon City University and jail authorities. The program was later expanded to male PDLs, who are also given access to education, livelihood training and health services under No Juan Left Behind. 

QCU President Dr. Theresita Atienza has emphasized the role of entrepreneurship education in helping graduates develop skills they can use for self-employment and livelihood opportunities after release.

The city government has also linked previous PDL graduates to livelihood and employment assistance. Earlier batches of women graduates were offered access to programs such as Pangkabuhayang QC, Tindahan ni Ate Joy and employment services after release. 

The latest graduation brings the program into a new phase as both male and female PDLs complete higher education while in detention.

For Quezon City, the initiative is intended to give participants practical skills and credentials that can support their transition back into their communities after serving their time.