The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) actively participated in the 2026 National Textile Convention (TELACon) on 28 January 2026 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City, highlighting its initiatives on sustainable livelihood and skills development for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PsDL).
The Bureau was represented by C/CSUPT CELSO S BRAVO, Head Executive Assistant, together with CT/SSUPT DOROTHY C BERNABE, Director of the Directorate for Reformation; C/CINSP EUSEBIO B DEL ROSARIO JR., Deputy Director of the Directorate for Reformation and Chief of the Work and Livelihood Division; and C/SINSP MARLYN P SULPOT, Deputy Superintendent for Reformation of the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW).
During the convention, C/CSUPT BRAVO highlighted BuCor’s partnership with the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), emphasizing the Bureau’s commitment to providing sustainable livelihood opportunities for PsDL.
On 30 June 2025, DOST-PTRI formally turned over five units of handloom weaving machines, along with three warping frames and bobbin winders, to the CIW. This initiative supported women PDLs enrolled in a 40-hour Basic Handloom Weaving Training program, equipping them with foundational knowledge and practical skills to aid their reintegration into society.
At present, the donated machines are housed at the Industrial Shop of the Maximum Security Camp and are being utilized to produce marketable items such as table runners, scarves, placemats, and other woven products for clients and visitors. BuCor also outlined plans to scale the program beyond CIW Mandaluyong, extending it to CIW Davao, CIW Sta. Lucia, and future Regional Prison Facilities (RPFs).
The 2026 TELACon, themed “Stitching Futures,” was organized by DOST-PTRI and served as a platform for textile innovators, industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers to converge and collaborate in shaping an inclusive, globally competitive, and sustainable future for the Philippine textile industry and its allied sectors.
BuCor’s participation underscored its continuing efforts to strengthen partnerships that promote reformation, skills development, and economic empowerment for PDLs through innovation-driven and sustainable livelihood programs.
