HOPE RENEWED: QCU PRODUCES 2ND BATCH OF FEMALE PDL GRADUATES FROM QC JAIL
From its beginnings in October 2022 under Mayor Joy Belmonte’s “No Woman Left Behind” program, the partnership among the Quezon City Local Government Unit (QCLGU), Quezon City University (QCU), and the Quezon City Jail Female Dormitory (QCJFD) continues to transform lives. This year, the initiative proudly marks another milestone with its second batch of graduates—24 women Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) who successfully completed the Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship program.
The 2025 Commencement Exercises were held on September 13, 2025, at the QC Jail Female Dormitory, Camp Karingal, Quezon City. Carrying the theme: “Upholding Resiliency, Innovation, Sustainability, and Equity,” the ceremony celebrated the resilience and determination of women who pursued education despite the barriers of incarceration.
This accomplishment builds on the success of the first graduation in September 2024, where 19 pioneering women PDLs earned their degrees. Many of them are now gainfully employed—as BPO workers, clinic and office personnel—or engaged in retail and livelihood ventures.
For this year’s historic program, City Jail Warden JCINSP Lourvina L. Abrazado, MM delivered the welcome remarks, honoring the strength and perseverance of the graduates. Mayor Joy Belmonte inspired the audience with her heartfelt message, reminding everyone that, “Tandaan, ang pagiging PDL ay hindi katapusan—ito ay simula ng panibagong pagkakataon at mas magandang bukas.”
QCU President Dr. Theresita V. Atienza conferred the degrees, while Dr. Glenda A. Rebucas, Dean of the College of Business, presented the graduates. The Pledge of Loyalty was led by Hon. Daryl R. Panganiban, President of the QCU Alumni Association, symbolizing the graduates’ continuing bond with their alma mater.
Of the 24 graduates this year, eight have already been released, while sixteen remain in custody as their cases are ongoing.
This pioneering education-in-detention program has also received international recognition, with QCU being named a finalist in the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards Asia 2025 under the Outstanding Support for Students category.
Now in its second year of producing graduates, the initiative affirms that education can flourish even behind bars. It renews hope, restores dignity, and empowers women PDLs to rebuild their futures with resilience, skills, and purpose.
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