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SETBI’s 4th int’l conference inside prison and jails in PH

by Contributor
written by Contributor

THE DAVAO del Norte State College gymnasium was all-hands-on-deck, putting on the finishing touches for the SETBI’s 4th International Conference on Persons Deprived of Liberty’s Transformative Education for Successful Re-entry. People from all over the country, with a keynote speaker from California, were settling down as the organizers buzzed around them. 

This conference was organized by the Social Entrepreneurship Technology and Business Institute, founded by Dr. Aland D. Mizell and co-founded by Atty. Susan P. Cariaga in 2016. The impetus for a program to offer degrees to the PDL came when a US team accompanied Mizell and his MCI students to distribute backpacks of school supplies at the Davao City Jail. 

Dr. Mizell was dismayed by the overcrowded conditions, the long confinement, and the wasted lives behind bars. Some had been stuck in there, averaging ten years, despite being presumed innocent, yet none used their time productively. Feeling compelled to respond to their plight, Dr. Mizell conceived of College Education Behind Bars. 

A year before, Atty. Cariaga had wanted to set up a Celebrate Recovery Program at her home church, so Dr. Mizell invited Celebrate Recovery leaders from Texas to train select parishioners for this step program and to set up the classes at her church. 

When researching carceral education in the Philippines, Dr. Mizell found out that there were already plenty of faith-based programs working with the jail. Additionally, the people deprived of liberty (PDL) needed to get jobs following their incarceration. 

That’s when the founder of the first College Education Behind Bars inside Davao City Jail, Dr. Mizell, decided to build an actual college inside Davao City Jail and to partner with the University of Southeastern Philippines (USEP) and the BJMP to offer college degrees to redeem the PLD’s time and to prepare them for reentry as well as careers. Besides educating the enrollees, they decided to integrate recovery and rehabilitation into the program to ensure they were equipped to make correct life choices. 

The jail management readily approved Dr. Mizell’s proposal, so an architect inside the jail designed the plans and oversaw the construction. Previous USeP president, Dr. Lourdes Generalao, immediately agreed to partner with CEBB to make it happen, saying that she would handle getting it approved by her board. 

Following that, a memorandum of Agreement was drafted among SETBI, USeP, and the BJMP and signed. Once approved, they started the work as soon as they could. Because few wanted to risk financing a program that might not work, funding was slow, but Dr. Mizell and Atty. Cariaga offered collateral while funds were solicited. The SETBI campus was built in the Davao City Jail. Almost ten years later, in 2025, it has produced multiple success stories and garnered global attention, being the first College Education Behind Bars program in the Philippines, hence this current conference.

Following wonderful performances by the DNSC Socio-Cultural Group, DNSC president, Dr. Joy M. Sorrosa, opened the conference, followed by SETBI’s College Education Behind Bars’ founder, Dr. Aland Mizell, who gave a heartfelt speech about the transformative impact of education. They spoke of the inherent worth of every individual and their need for second chances, declaring this conference to be a space for fostering collaboration. 

The keynote speaker, a criminology professor from California State University, Fresno, Dr. Emma Hughes, spoke about why prison education matters. Aside from the lowered recidivism rates, higher chances for employment, and lessened cost for the government, prison education gives PDLs dignity and hope. 

She described her program at the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, sharing her practices with the attendees. Concluding, she proposed that recidivism rates didn’t capture all the benefits of education, and recounted the individual and emotional effects on the incarcerated students’ lives.

Following an engaging video detailing the College Education Behind Bars’ origins, effects, and testimonials from PDL who were still participating in the classes, the program segued into two plenary speakers, the Honorable Judge Gemma Betonio and Engineer Julius Quirim. Judge Betonio proposed that true justice was not only about punishment, but also about restoration, redemption, and reintegration. 

Engineer Quirim, who is the co-founder of SETBI Cares, recounted that he was helping a former PDL reintegrate into society and support his family. This former PDL, Rodolfo Tubio, shared an emotional story about his moving from a life sentence to freedom with the help of SETBI’s College Education Behind Bars program. 

Afterward, a panel of experts talked about future plans and the challenges associated with such a program. The first day ended with the participants sharing their research and knowledge of their work to help rehabilitate PDL, the obstacles they faced, and the experience of teaching behind bars. A common theme throughout the day was that every person deserved a second chance, and PDLs should be given humane environments. 

Unfortunately, the second day was cut short by a massive earthquake during Professor Hughes’ second presentation about government and higher education programs collaborating to create a community. 

For safety, the university took precautions and understandably canceled the rest of the event. However, participants returned on the third day to visit the new campus at the Davao Prison and Penal Farm (DPPF), so the conference proved successful, especially because those who gathered to discuss this field of tertiary education in penal institutions also networked and planned to stay in contact.  The conference achieved its purpose of sharing knowledge, which will flourish from there. By Joey Cariaga

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Opinion

FROM THE MAIL | Reflections on SETBI’s 4th International Conference on Transformative Higher Education inside Prisons and Jails in the Philippines

by Contributor
written by Contributor

I HAD the privilege of joining the SETBI ‘s 4th International Conference on Persons Deprived of Liberty’s Transformative Education for Successful Re-entry in Panabo, Davao del Norte State College, held from Oct. 9 to 11, 2025.

Over three days, scholars, educators, and practitioners from across the Philippines convened to discuss research, policies, and practices aimed at improving education for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs), those who are incarcerated but seeking personal growth, rehabilitation, and eventual reintegration.

The Social Entrepreneurship, Technology, and Business Institute (SETBI) is a non-profit organization known for initiating the first-ever College Education in the Philippines and even Southeast Asia. This program was founded by Dr. Aland David Mizell in 2016 in partnership with the University of Southeastern Philippines, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), and other educational and government institutions. It became the first program in the Philippines and in Asia to offer college education inside a jail.

The first campus was established in Davao City Jail, allowing PDLs to pursue formal college degrees while serving their sentences. Over the years, the program has expanded to other facilities such as the Davao Prison and Penal Farm. What makes CEBB unique is its holistic approach; it not only focuses on academic learning but also includes values formation, recovery programs, life skills, and livelihood training to help prepare PDLs for a productive life after release.

During the conference, Dr. Aland Mizell shared his inspiring message about the true purpose of the College Education Behind Bars. “I think a lot of the prisons and jails in our country are designed to punish, not to rehabilitate,” Dr. Mizell shared. “When you punish somebody, there must be something about rehabilitation, second chances, and that is the true purpose of the SETBI’s college Education Behind Bars.”

SETBI College Education Behind Bars is a degree-granting program incorporated with a recovery class. It has graduated 120 PDLs with a zero recidivism rate since its establishment, and many graduates are fully employed and law-abiding citizens. He believes that education is a powerful tool that can transform lives, reduce recidivism, provide more opportunities, and open doors to a better future. Listening to his talk made me realize how visionary and heart-driven the CEBB program truly is; it stands as a symbol of hope for those who are often forgotten by society.

Another remarkable part of the conference was the talk of Professor Emma Hughes, a Criminal Justice Professor from California State University, Fresno. She served as one of the guest speakers and shared her experience with similar programs in the United States. “Project Rebound,” which supports formerly incarcerated students in reintegrating into academic life. Her discussion highlighted the transformative power of education in changing the lives of prisoners and how programs like CEBB can also be strengthened through international collaboration.

Her insights were very enlightening because they showed that rehabilitation through education is not just a local effort but a global movement. The conference also featured research presentations from various schools across the country. These studies focused on different aspects of the education-behind-bars initiative, its challenges, outcomes, and possible improvements. Some discussed how education helps reduce drug dependence and improve behavior and morale among PDLs.

Others talked about the obstacles, such as a lack of funding, limited access to teachers, and the stigma that PDL students face. One presentation, however, caught my attention because the presenters claimed that a similar program originated in their province and that they were the original founders. But based on verified information and credible sources, such as Mindanao Times (2017) and Edge Davao (2017), the first established and recognized program of college education inside jail in the Philippines was indeed founded by Dr. Aland Mizell after becoming a successful, Former DILG secretary issued a memo to replicate all Jail facilities nationwide.

Currently, there are more than 11 regions that have replicated College Education Behind Bars. Since the program became very successful, many would like to take ownership. The program’s significance has been recognized not only by academic institutions but also by high-ranking government officials.

CHED chairperson Prospero “Popoy” De Vera III has publicly affirmed that the CEBB program is the first of its kind in the Philippines and in Asia to provide formal college education inside a jail facility, even constructing an actual college building within the compound. He also encouraged other higher education institutions to document and replicate the program nationwide, recognizing its transformative impact on Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs). Similarly, Supreme Court Associate Justice Jose Midas P. Marquez praised the program’s success in giving PDLs the capability and confidence needed to reintegrate into society after release.

The CEBB program has also received formal recognition from the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, which awarded SETBI for its outstanding contribution to inmate education and rehabilitation during its 31st founding anniversary. In addition, Vice President Sara Z. Duterte, who is from Davao City, where the program originated, issued a message of support acknowledging the positive role of CEBB in restoring hope and dignity among incarcerated learners. This acknowledgment from the country’s top officials only reinforces the program’s legitimacy and importance.

It is clear, therefore, that the College Education Behind Bars program founded by Dr. Aland Mizell is not only the first but also the most widely recognized model of higher education for PDLs in the Philippines. In my view, the failure to give proper credit to an individual who has dedicated years of effort, time, and compassion to establishing such a transformative program is both disheartening and unjust. Acknowledgment transcends mere recognition; it embodies respect, integrity, and fairness.

When others neglect to recognize the original founder of an initiative, it compromises the authenticity of their advocacy and calls into question the sincerity of their intentions. True advocacy must be anchored in honesty, humility, and gratitude—particularly when its aim is to promote human dignity and social rehabilitation. Hence, recognizing the vision and dedication of the true pioneer is not simply a gesture of courtesy but a moral obligation. Genuine and lasting change begins with respect, and extending due credit to the rightful originator affirms both truth and ethical integrity.

However, on the second day, one unforgettable and unexpected event happened during the conference—a magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck Davao Oriental, which was strongly felt in Davao del Norte while the sessions were ongoing. The strong tremor caused the cancellation of the remaining parts of the conference.

Thankfully, all the attendees were safe and no casualties were reported. Although it was a frightening experience, it also became a lesson on how unpredictable life can be. It made me appreciate the efforts of the organizers and participants who remained calm and ensured everyone’s safety.

Overall, my experience at the 4th International SETBI Conference was both educational and inspiring. It deepened my understanding of how education can be a form of justice and healing. The efforts of Dr. Aland Mizell, Professor Emma Hughes, and everyone involved in the CEBB program prove that transformation is possible when compassion and education work hand in hand.

As I reflect on the entire event, I believe that College Education Behind Bars is a golden program, and it deserves the continued support from all government institutions and the community so that more PDLs will get a second chance. 

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Lynnyth Valera Aguilar is a Bachelor of Arts in Polical Science

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CommunityHealth

Minority Care International (MCI) gives glasses in Barangay Cebuano, South Cotabato

by Contributor
written by Contributor

CLEAR vision is essential not only for health but also for quality of life and productivity. In the Philippines, the eyeglasses market faces challenges such as limited manufacturing capacity, uneven distribution between urban and rural areas, and high prices that make basic vision correction unaffordable for many.

In a crucial role, civil society organizations can leverage innovative models to deliver affordable and accessible eye care, often filling the gaps left by public sector efforts.

To fill a gap in various communities, Minority Care International (MCI) has dispensed thousands of reading eye glasses in 14 distributions, including to the Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) in the Davao Penal and Prison Farm (DaPeCol).

Recognizing the profound impact MCI’s Restoring Vision annual eye care projects have had on individuals’ lives, they performed more than 290 eye check-ups and dispensed more than 200  reading glasses to the Cebuano Barangay in South Cotabato. Dr. Audrey Kim Delin and her husband, Dr. Lendl Sam Delin, also joined hospital volunteers in conducting eye exams, having labeled all lens strengths before the distribution. 

Also, to further serve community needs, Nurse Andrea and 4th-year Medtech student Yakup Celik conducted free blood pressure screening for the eye care donees. According to one recipient, he appreciated MCI’s community outreach project because eye checks and glasses are very expensive, with the consequence that most do not have glasses and, thus, have untreated problems. 

Through this service, MCI scholars continue to learn to give back to their community. Social work former MCI scholar Theresa Adil and Mary Rose also came to help in the distribution of eyeglasses.  MCI scholarship beneficiary currently studying tourism at the University of Mindanao in her second year, Shaira Arida is from Cebuano, Barangay South Cotabato.

Even as a student, she organized the MCI eye care event with her Barangay SK officials to extend the MCI eye care project to her community. Shaira gave an opening message before the distribution. 

Part of Shaira Arida’s speech is as follows:

“Good morning, everyone! I’m Shaira Arida, Public Relations Officer of the Minority Care International Student Association (MCISA). It’s an honor to be here for this meaningful event.

“Before we begin, I’d like to acknowledge the visionary behind our program, our founder, Dr. Aland Mizell. We’re also joined by Atty. Susan Cariaga, Vice President of SETBI. Special thanks to Dr. Audrey Kim Delin and Dr. Lendi Sam Delin for their help with today’s eyeglass distribution. I’d also like to thank Barangay officials, led by Noel Dela Cruz, and SK officials, headed by Honey Grace Enario, for supporting our 14th eyeglass distribution, including here in Barangay Cebuano.

“Today’s event is about more than just eyeglasses—it’s about giving people the vision to pursue opportunities and live fuller lives. MCI’s Restoring Vision project embodies our mission: not just to support students, but to give back to the community. Though I am still a student, MCI has given me the chance to serve and grow.

“MCI means a lot to me. It has not only supported my education but also guided and shaped me. Without MCI, I wouldn’t be standing here today. It has taught me to dream big despite challenges and to believe in my potential.”

“We acknowledge the Cebuano Barangay SKs for their hospitality and for allowing us to distribute the eyewear, as well as my father, Mr.  Arida, for providing lunch. By Shaira Ardia

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Shaira Ardia is an MCI Scholar and a second-year Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management student at the University of Mindanao (UM).

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Uncategorized

Actor Cesar Montano commends third batch of graduates of SETBI College Education Behind Bars campus at Dapecol

by Admin
written by Admin

BY ALAND MIZELL

ENTERING the Social Entrepreneurship Technology and Business Institute (SETBI) and College Education Behind Bars facility within the Davao Prison and Penal Farm (Dapecol), it’s immediately apparent what the goal of this place is.

Emblazoned on the wall, it says, “Education is Freedom.” It was college graduation day for a handful of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), and they were in for an exciting commencement ceremony because they had an acclaimed actor and politician
Cesar Montano is giving a speech. Many thought it was only a rumor, but Mr. Montano entered the facility that day, silencing any doubt about his presence.

Once within those particular walls, a group of PDL students was waiting on the second floor of the building. When Mr. Montano stepped out of the car, there were cheers, naturally. There was an immediate camaraderie between him and the group, trading greetings and remarks. Mr. Montano was quite comfortable and showed no prejudice against them, treating them like anyone else he met.

Another notable person in this group was Pastor Gary Galvas, the person who was going to introduce Mr. Montano as a speaker. Pastor Galvas, a former PDL himself, was jovial and cordial with the PDLs, mildly joking around with them as the group entered the building.

Later on, before leaving at the end of the ceremony, Pastor Galvas commented that the program felt “completely supported and really organized.” Furthermore, he said that the program SETBI provided gave PDLs a sense of purpose, more than anything else. This was made more evident as the ceremony started and progressed.

Cesar Montano gave a spectacular and thoughtful speech, all the while keeping it light with his natural humor. He spoke about the good that this program was doing, not only to the individuals graduating and still on the way to graduating, but also to the country at large. He expressed that our country was in dire need of healing. This program was the first step to that.

He commended Dr. Aland Mizell and Atty. Susan Cariaga, as well as the various staff and teachers involved, made this program what it was. On top of that, he commended the graduates for reaching their current goal. Towards the end, he led the attendees, including and especially the PDLs in the audience, in a prayer that praised the Lord, asked for forgiveness, offered forgiveness to others, and, finally, promised to serve the Lord moving forward. This was soon followed by the awarding of the diplomas.

It was a short procession, with only six graduates, but monumental nonetheless. A couple of these graduates had family members walk them up the stage to accept their diplomas. Afterwards, one of the graduates, Rodolfo Tubio, went up on stage and shared his story. He started it off by saying, “A judge gave me a life sentence. SETBI gave me a life contract.”

What followed was a touching story of regret, perseverance, and hope. Mr. Tubio earned a life sentence for selling drugs, but with the help of the College Education Behind Bars program and SETBI, not only did he earn a college degree, he earned his freedom, becoming the first person to be released from Davao del Norte Davao Penal Colony under RA9165. The speech was met with resounding applause from everyone in the audience, and later, one of the teachers would say that she had started shedding tears as Mr. Tubio spoke on stage.

When the ceremony was done, the fun wasn’t over. Naturally, with a very important speaker in the midst, everyone wanted to take a picture. Mr. Montano even encouraged it, requesting the PDLs, who were separated from the audience at the time, to join them in the picture taking. This was met with no resistance from the officers.

Everyone was all smiles as various groups took pictures in front of the stage with the speakers and the leaders of this program.

Before Mr. Montano departed for the day, he sat down for a brief interview to comment on what had happened today. He expressed that this program was a “great blessing,” and he prayed that this sort of program would multiply to other penal colonies and other jails to help PDLs move forward.

Truly, this was the goal of SETBI and College Education Behind Bars: to set an example for all the world, not only this country, to see. That despite mistakes and hardships, there was always a hope for the future. That PDLs deserve a chance and
forgiveness as much as anyone else who wasn’t incarcerated. Education led to freedom; it was as plain as day in the graduates and the students who were on their way. There was no doubt in anyone’s mind that everyone in that community was doing the right thing.

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