The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole), recently trained Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at the Santa Rosa City Jail Male Dormitory in Laguna in developing market-ready products and preparing for sustainable livelihoods upon their release.
For individuals preparing to rejoin society, practical entrepreneurship skills offer a crucial pathway toward rebuilding their lives and achieving economic self-reliance. To support this transition, the agency conducted the ‘Capability-building for Sining Malaya’ seminar on August 6, 2026 at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology facility.
The training focused on essential business concepts, including product promotion, branding, packaging, labeling and market development.
During the hands-on session, participants put their knowledge into practice by creating a brand identity for handcrafted bags made from recycled and repurposed materials. The participants named the line ‘The Dignity Bag,’ applying proper branding and presentation techniques to position the item for potential commercial buyers.
DTI guided the participants through the fundamentals of packaging and labeling. She emphasized how clear product information and professional presentation build consumer trust and boost market competitiveness, while also sharing practical marketing strategies tailored for micro-entrepreneurs.
Complementing the technical training, the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) introduced the ISTIV Bayanihan Program. Rivera highlighted core values-industry, hard work (sipag), perseverance (tiyaga), integrity and value for work-as essential foundations for successful entrepreneurship and personal rehabilitation.
Through initiatives like Sining Malaya, DTI continues to empower PDLs with actionable business skills, equipping them to transform craftsmanship into viable income opportunities as they prepare for a fresh start in their communities.