Final Session of “Bukas Loob Tungo sa Bagong Pag-asa” Celebrates Purpose, Proposals, and Possibility

Quezon City, July 11, 2025 — With hearts full and spirits renewed, the participants of PRESO, Inc.’s Bukas Loob Tungo sa Bagong Pag-asa project gathered once more at the Centro Divino Pastoral Building of the Parish of the Lord of Divine Mercy—for what would be the culminating session of their five-part reintegration journey.

Far from being a mere conclusion, the session began with Executive Director Teresita D. Gomez warmly declaring: “This is not the end. This is just the beginning.” She emphasized that the business proposals about to be presented would not be left to gather dust. They would be reviewed, enhanced, and potentially supported by PRESO partners—because real reintegration requires more than encouragement; it requires investment.

Then came the moment of truth. Each participant, with nerves and pride intermingled, stood before the group to pitch their livelihood plans. Guided by the foundational 5Ps—Product, Price, Place, Promotion, and People—the pitches were concrete, creative, and personal. Whether it was a home-based food business, a small laundry venture, or a motorbike transport service, each proposal reflected thought, grit, and the desire to live with dignity.

Participants also explained their Unique Selling Proposition and the deeper purpose behind their business—a purpose that often stemmed from a desire to support children, repay debts of gratitude, or simply prove to themselves and others that change is possible.

The morning concluded with a deeply moving formation session by Sr. Tammy Saberon of the Missionary Sisters of St. Columban. Her talk, "Who Am I?" and "The Power to Change," gently redirected participants toward inner healing. “We are not defined by what we’ve done, but by who we choose to become,” she said. Her words helped stitch together the threads of transformation—financial, emotional, and spiritual—that the program had steadily woven.

The day ended with a graduation ceremony that was both solemn and celebratory. In his keynote message, PRESO President Atty. Rene V. Sarmiento—legal luminary, former COMELEC Commissioner, and champion of human dignity—praised the participants for their courage and commitment. “You have taken the first steps in a journey of renewal,” he said. “Let the world see your transformation, and let your light guide others who are still in darkness.”

As the graduates received their certificates, there was a quiet understanding that these were not just pieces of paper—but badges of resilience. They were not just completing a program—they were reclaiming their place in the world.