PRESO, Inc. Opens a New Chapter of Hope with the Launch of “Bukas Loob Tungo sa Bagong Pag-asa” Batch 3

A new journey has begun.

On September 11, 2026, the Prisoners Enhancement and Support Organization, Inc. (PRESO, Inc.) successfully launched the third batch of “Bukas Loob Tungo sa Bagong Pag-asa,” its six-month reintegration initiative for Persons Restored of Liberty (PRLs): individuals who, after incarceration, are working to rebuild their lives and find their place once again in their families, communities, and society.

The first session brought together participating PRLs for an orientation on the program and the journey that lies ahead. The activity opened with welcome remarks from PRESO, Inc. President Comm. Rene V. Sarmiento, who affirmed the organization’s continuing commitment to accompany PRLs beyond their release and support them as they work toward a renewed and productive life.

A highlight of the first session was the inspirational talk, “Enhancing Mindset towards Reintegration,” delivered by Fr. JhunG Bargayon, SJ. The session invited participants to look beyond their past experiences, recognize their capacity for change, and embrace the possibilities that come with a new beginning.

More Than a Program, a Journey of Rebuilding

“Bukas Loob Tungo sa Bagong Pag-asa” is built on the understanding that reintegration does not end when a person walks out of the jail gate. Returning to the community can bring challenges such as finding meaningful work, rebuilding relationships, managing finances, coping with stigma, and rediscovering one’s sense of purpose.

The six-month initiative seeks to respond to these realities through a holistic approach that includes needs assessment, mindset and values formation, financial literacy, skills development, livelihood and employment opportunities, and continuing monitoring and support.

This third batch is made possible through the support of Local Sparks, the social impact movement of Arcadis Philippines, whose partnership helps PRESO, Inc. expand opportunities for PRLs as they take concrete steps toward rebuilding their lives.

Reintegration is a Community Responsibility

Every successful reintegration story is more than an individual achievement. It is also a story about a family willing to welcome someone home, an employer willing to provide an opportunity, a community willing to look beyond a person's past, and organizations willing to walk with someone through the difficult process of starting again.

This is why PRESO, Inc. continues to advocate for a whole-of-community approach to aftercare and reintegration. One where government, civil society organizations, faith-based groups, businesses, families, communities, and other stakeholders work together to ensure that former PDLs are not left to navigate their new beginning alone.

The journey of restoration requires more than a second chance. It requires people and communities willing to help make that second chance possible.

As Batch 3 begins its six-month journey, PRESO, Inc. and its partners invite everyone to be part of that journey.

Because when we open our hearts, open opportunities, and open our communities, a new beginning becomes more than a hope, it becomes a possibility.

BUKAS LOOB TUNGO SA BAGONG PAG-ASA — BATCH 3

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