Davao del Sur State College - Extension and Community Relations Office wins Best Paper Award and Best Poster-for the Extension Category- Award, for the Extension Program on LIFE Behind Bars for the component on Capability-building through Skills and Livelihood Training for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) at the National Research and Extension Advocacy Conference for Change (NREACH) hosted by University Rizal System of Tanay Rizal.

The "LIFE Behind Bars Program" launched by DSSC at the Digos City District Jail Female Dormitory, under the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing gender responsiveness and fully mainstreaming Gender and Development (GAD) in correctional facilities. This program focuses on capacity-building through skills and livelihood training, specifically in innovative mushroom production and marketing.

Through hands-on training, 36 women Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) acquired skills, kickstarting their own businesses and gaining financial independence. The program, monitored and evaluated for progress, not only recorded an average income of Php 5,892.00 for PDLs but also extended its impact to the families involved, earning an average of Php 2,841.00.

This unique approach contributes significantly to the rehabilitation of women PDLs by providing livelihood opportunities, fostering a sense of purpose, and preparing them for successful reintegration into society.

Furthermore, engaging in economic activities within the correctional facility positively impacts mental health, strengthens family ties, reduces social isolation, and increases the likelihood of successful reintegration upon release.

The “Life Behind Bars” Program has been made possible through the efforts of program leaders Queenie Lyn G. Almerez, Ph. D, and Edralyn Catubay-Latras, along with program staff, Mara Calapardo, Jovie Cañada, Jammy Francisco, Carlo Magonalig, and Rolando Licudine.