A Home Beyond Prison Walls: Celebrating New Beginnings with Ka-Laya Batch 3
November 10, 2026 | Send-off Ceremony of Ka-Laya Batch 3 | Lakbay Laya Program
Every journey toward freedom becomes more meaningful when there are people willing to walk beside us. And every new beginning becomes possible when we are reminded that we are loved, accepted, and never alone.
November 10, 2026, the Philippine Jesuit Prison Service Foundation, Inc. (PJPS) celebrated a meaningful milestone as the three-month formation, accompaniment, and training of Ka-Laya Batch 3 under the Lakbay Laya Program came to an end.
It was more than a send-off ceremony. It was a celebration of journeys, renewed hopes, and the courage to embrace life beyond prison walls. It was also a reminder that transformation does not happen overnight. It grows through patience, faith, guidance, and the loving presence of people who believe in second chances.
A Journey Placed in God's Hands
The day began with a Holy Mass presided over by Fr. Erwin "Bok" Arandia, SJ, and concelebrated by Fr. Dom Joseph Bulan, SJ. Together with PJPS staff, volunteers, benefactors, formators, and friends, the community gathered in prayer and thanksgiving for the journey of Ka-Laya Batch 3.
During the welcome remarks, Atty. Philip T. Gan, Executive Director of PJPS, shared the story of the twelve disciples caught in a storm while Jesus was with them. When fear and uncertainty overwhelmed them, Jesus calmed the storm.
He connected this Gospel story to the journey awaiting the Ka-Laya. Life beyond prison walls may bring unfamiliar challenges, uncertainties, and difficult decisions. There will be storms to face, but faith in God and confidence in themselves can help them navigate the realities of a new beginning.
His message was a reminder that freedom is not simply about leaving the prison gates. It is also about finding the courage to face life, make meaningful choices, and continue moving forward despite the challenges along the way.
Honoring Every Journey and Every Transformation
One of the meaningful moments of the ceremony was the presentation of the members of Ka-Laya Batch 3 by Gene Alolosan, PRL Care Program Coordinator. Each member received a token and certificate in recognition of their participation and completion of the formation.
These certificates represented more than the completion of a program. They symbolized three months of learning, sharing, self-discovery, and preparation for the journey ahead.
Ate Gwen Llano, one of the formators of Ka-Laya, also shared an inspirational message. She reminded everyone that reformation is not simply about completing activities or reaching a particular milestone. It is about choosing to walk a path grounded in love, trust, and humility.
Her words reflected the heart of the Lakbay Laya Program: transformation is a continuing journey. It happens through small decisions, sincere relationships, and the willingness to become better each day.
Gratitude That Comes from the Heart
Perhaps one of the most touching moments of the ceremony was when the members of Ka-Laya Batch 3 expressed their gratitude through songs and heartfelt messages.
Their voices carried more than words of thanks. They reflected the friendships formed, the lessons learned, and the encouragement they received throughout their three-month journey.
Behind every step they have taken were people who chose to believe in them. The formators who patiently guided them, the volunteers who generously shared their time, the benefactors who made the formation possible, and the entire PJPS community who continued to accompany them.
As the ceremony drew to a close, Fr. Bok shared his message of gratitude and encouragement. He reminded the Ka-Laya that they will always have a home to return to in PJPS. More importantly, he assured them that they are loved by the people who have walked with them throughout their journey.
It was a beautiful reminder that while their formation has ended, the relationships they have built do not have to end with it.
The program concluded with a special blessing for Ka-Laya Batch 3 led by Fr. Dom, SJ, followed by a simple salu-salo where everyone shared food, stories, laughter, and fellowship.
The Journey Continues Beyond the Prison Walls
The send-off of Ka-Laya Batch 3 reminds us that every person deserves the opportunity to begin again. A person's past should never take away the possibility of a meaningful future.
Through the Lakbay Laya Program, PJPS continues to accompany Persons Restored of Liberty (PRLs) as they prepare to rebuild their lives and embrace the opportunities and responsibilities that come with freedom.
But this mission cannot be carried out alone. It takes a community willing to listen without judgment, serve with compassion, and recognize the dignity and potential of every person.
To our Ka-Laya Batch 3, congratulations! May you carry with you the lessons, friendships, and faith you have nurtured throughout this journey. Remember that the road ahead may not always be easy, but you do not have to walk it alone. Your PJPS family will always be here to accompany and welcome you.
To our formators, volunteers, benefactors, staff, and friends, thank you for making this journey possible. Your generosity and presence remind our brothers and sisters that they are seen, valued, and loved.
Because freedom is not only about leaving prison walls behind. It is about discovering the courage to live again, the grace to grow, and the hope to begin anew.
Together, let us continue building a community where second chances are made possible and where no one is left behind.
Support the Lakbay Laya Program and other PJPS initiatives. Through your prayers, generosity, and continued partnership, you help create opportunities for transformation and meaningful new beginnings.
Every act of kindness can become part of someone's journey toward a brighter future.
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam!
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