Forty-year-old “Kamote” relates the benefits of the Department of Agriculture and Department of Justice Reformation Initiative for Sustainable Environment for Food Security Project or DA RISE to Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) like himself during the harvest festival of the 4.5-hectare (ha) demonstration farm at Iwahig Prison and Penal Colony on Dec. 7, 2023.
“Kamote” is one of 70 inmates trained by the DA and partners from the private sector on efficient farm systems to produce rice and various vegetables. He says he enjoys doing farm work.
He explains that Phase 1 of the program, which began in July, trained them to be responsible individuals and productive farmers. After a five-month hands-on training, he’s confident that he will have a better life after prison.
The RISE Project is among the government initiatives towards the reformation of PDLs. It also aims to contribute to the food security agenda of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.
In a message read on behalf of Agriculture Secretary Francsico P. Tiu Laurel, Bureau of Plant Industry Director Gerald Glenn Panganiban said the harvest festival is a celebration of the fruits of the labor of the PDLs, as well as a collaboration of the Department of Agriculture, Department of Justice, Bureau of Corrections, and the private sector.
The Secretary added that under his leadership, DA will adopt modern innovations and technologies to increase production and improve prices of various agricultural commodities.
“We will reform and prepare you for your reintegration into society. You are now farmers para sa masaganang bagong Pilipinas (You are now farmers for a new, prosperous Philippines),” he said.
Panganiban also encouraged PDLs to embrace technology and innovation promoted by the Department.
The second phase of the RISE Project under the 2024 development plan will cover 500 hectares of Iwahig’s property, including cashews, corn, rice production, a tilapia pond, and livestock raising and pasture areas.
