Rotary Clubs Support “Handicrafts Behind Bars” Livelihood Program for Persons Deprived of Liberty in Lingayen

From April 6 to 30, 2026, the “Handicrafts Behind Bars” project was successfully implemented to support 306 Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) through a meaningful income-generating livelihood initiative. The program was designed to provide skills development, sustainable income opportunities, and hope for rehabilitation through productive work.

The initiative aligns with three key Areas of Focus of Rotary International: Community Economic Development, Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention, and Environment Protection. By engaging PDLs in livelihood production, the program fosters personal growth while contributing to broader social reintegration efforts.

A key feature of the project is the production of handcrafted doormats made from recycled clothing sourced from “ukay-ukay.” This eco-friendly approach promotes environmental responsibility by reducing textile waste and encouraging sustainable reuse of materials. At the same time, it provides participants with practical skills that can support future livelihood opportunities.

Approximately 600 doormats were personally handcrafted by the PDLs and were collectively purchased by partner Rotary Clubs, further strengthening the program’s impact and sustainability. The initiative not only provides financial support to the beneficiaries but also reinforces their sense of dignity, purpose, and hope for reintegration into society.

The accompanying activity also highlighted the active participation of Rotarian Adalia Sorio of the Rotary Club of Lingayen, who joined a hands-on doormat-making session facilitated by the PDLs themselves. The experience fostered mutual learning and camaraderie, making the initiative both educational and deeply meaningful for all participants.

“Handicrafts Behind Bars” stands as a powerful example of how livelihood programs can transform lives—turning recycled materials into meaningful products, and transforming lives behind bars into stories of hope, resilience, and renewal.