The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) joined the “Behind Walls, Beyond Bars: National Correctional Consciousness Week Art Exhibition,” featuring the artistic talents and creativity of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) and former PDLs held at the National Museum of Fine Arts, Padre Burgos Drive, Rizal Park, Manila on October 29, 2024.
The exhibit was formally opened and graced by FIRST LADY LOUISE ARANETA-MARCOS who led the ribbon cutting together with HON. JEREMY BARNS, Director-General, National Museum of the Philippines, GENERAL GREGORIO PIO P CATAPANG JR, AFP (RET.), CESE, CCLH, BuCor Director General, and JAIL DIRECTOR RUEL S RIVERA, DSC Chief, BJMP. Other prominent figures, including Ms. Alice Eduardo, President and CEO of Santa Elena Construction and Development Corporation, also attended the event.
FIRST LADY LOUISE ARANETA-MARCOS received a portrait of The First Family artistically made by a PDL incarcerated at the New Bilibid Prison including a bag created by PDLs from the Correctional Institution for Women.
The event highlighted the presentation of certificates of recognition and awarding of cash prizes to PDLs who enthusiastically participated in the NCCW Art Competition organized by the Justice Sector Coordinating Council (JSCC), Bagong Buhay Group of Artists (BAGA), and the National Museum of the Philippines. The bureau’s PDL artwork placed second in the Oil/Acrylic Painting Category and landed second and third place in the Wood-Burned Art (Pyrography) Category. All the winning entries are featured at the National Museum and as part of the exhibition and will also be auctioned afterward.
Furthermore, Supreme Court (SC) CHIEF JUSTICE ALEXANDER G. GESMUNDO, ASSOCIATE JUSTICE KARL B. MIRANDA, USEC RAUL T. VASQUEZ, ATTY. BIENVENIDO BENITEZ JR., and other notable guests attended the awarding ceremony, expressing their unwavering support for the exhibition and making it a reality.
The exhibit is designed to offer the public a distinctive insight into the lives and narratives of incarcerated individuals, showcasing their incredible and artistic potential. Additionally, the exhibit plays a crucial role in their transformation and successful reintegration into society.
A snappy salute to the organizer as it proved their expertise in organizing a remarkable event, which has significantly boosted the morale of our clientele as they express their emotions and experiences through the power of art.
The exhibit runs until January 5, 2025. Dive into the dynamic art exhibit and fully immerse yourself in the captivating crafts made by the PDLs.
