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A Different Kind of Graduation

September 27, 2006

  

              

 

Going back to the maximum-security compound of the New Bilibid Prisons felt like a walk in the park even if it was only our 2nd time there. Well, literally it was a walk in THEIR park where inmates greeted us with their umbrellas and the same courtesy and kindness they’ve shown the first time we were there (August 6). It still leaves me perplexed at how such tamed beings could end up in a place like this. But that’s another story which I will perhaps tell in the future as I continue to delve into this volunteer work.       

As we reached their hall-turned-chapel, I can hear singing as mass has already started. The mass was in celebration of (some) Bilibid inmates-turned-students’ graduation from their 8-month long course in General Psychology, Pagkilala sa Sarili and Pagkilala sa Pamilya. Teacher-volunteers from Skwelahang Sikolohiya spearheaded the graduation ceremony namely Joji Reynes, Angel Levosada, Rhea Manuel, Jay Saplala, and Sandy Ebrada. Lourdes Vargas, a prominent professor in her field, was the guest speaker that morning.     

It is important to note that a representative from each of the three classes gave their respective speeches as well, tackling what they have learned and how the classes inspired them to be better individuals whether inside or outside of prison. The whole ceremony was truly inspiring. I could only hope that more volunteers and students alike will join us next year . Classes start on February.            

In the meantime, planning session is slotted this coming December wherein the core group of teachers will schedule the modules and rotation of volunteers for next year. At least I would still have the time to refresh my skills and learnings in General Psychology. I am excited to teach but I’d prefer if I become Peter’s sidekick for the mean time. He’s just much better at this than I could ever be. We’ll see…       

‘Til our next visit! :-)

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