By Weng Ocfemia

MANILA — The second National Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) Art Exhibition, dubbed “Tanaw-Laya,” is now open to the public until May 8 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit Makati.

The exhibit highlights the artistic works of PDLs, showcasing their creativity while emphasizing that incarceration does not fully define individuals within the Philippine criminal justice system.

The event is organized by the Justice Sector Coordinating Council (JSCC), led by Sandiganbayan Associate Justice Karl Miranda, with support from the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) headed by Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr., and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology.

Displayed artworks explore themes such as dreams, solitude, love, loss, hope, nationhood, and freedom. The pieces reflect personal experiences, either created during incarceration or inspired by life behind bars.

Organizers said the exhibit aims to encourage the public to look beyond the circumstances of PDLs and appreciate their contributions to the country’s cultural and artistic landscape.

BuCor participants secured five awards across three categories. In pyrography, Ronnie Liles Dosojan of San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm won first place for “Journey of Light,” while Romeo T. Monsato of Leyte Regional Prison placed second with “Usad Pagong na Paglilitis, Hindi Patas na Pagdinig.”

In sculpture, Leonard L. Anas Jr. of Leyte Regional Prison earned first place for “Luksong Baka.” For painting, Reynald P. Berez and Randy J. Bolaños of Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm received second place for “Hapunan ng mga Buwaya,” while Joseph Manlolo of the BuCor Maximum Security Camp took third place for “May Puso Din.”

Winners received cash prizes amounting to P50,000 for first place, P30,000 for second place, and P20,000 for third place.

Catapang commended the awardees and thanked the JSCC for mounting the exhibit, noting its impact on inmates.

“Our PDLs won five awards out of nine in three categories in this exhibit,” Catapang proudly said.

He added that the exhibition serves as a morale booster for PDLs by showing that creativity and talent continue to thrive even in confinement.

Established in 2010, the JSCC coordinates efforts among the Supreme Court, Department of Justice, and Department of the Interior and Local Government to improve the administration of justice in the country.

Organizers said the “Tanaw-Laya” exhibit reflects the resilience of PDLs and underscores the possibility of rehabilitation and reintegration into society through creative expression.