ILOILO — Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. marked the Christmas season with a strong message of hope and rehabilitation as he personally distributed gift packs to some 2,000 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Iloilo District Jail (IDJ) in Barangay Nanga, Pototan town.
Defensor personally led the distribution of P350-worth gift packs containing food and basic necessities, describing the activity as part of a long-standing holiday tradition aimed at reminding inmates that they are not forgotten during the festive season.
He was joined by officials of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Region 6, including Regional Director Senior Superintendent Jhon Montero, Jail Administrator Atty. Jairus Anthony Dogelio, and IDJ Warden Chief Inspector Mark Malhabour.
The governor said the annual gift-giving reflects the true spirit of Christmas — sharing, forgiveness, and hope — and builds on a tradition started by his father, former governor Arthur Defensor Sr., in partnership with the Iloilo Provincial Employees and Community Multi-purpose Cooperative.
Beyond the holiday gesture, Defensor reiterated his commitment to long-term reforms at the jail, including plans to convert the facility into a training center that would equip PDLs with practical skills for life after detention.
He also pledged to address basic needs in the area, particularly water supply and other essential utilities. For many inmates, the visit brought a rare sense of warmth and dignity during the holidays, with one PDL capturing the moment by saying, “Ibang-iba talaga, ang pasko sa Nanga.”/PN