A Journey to the True Self: RePro Graduation of Batches 2 and 3
What a journey it has been! On October 12, 2024, we witnessed something truly remarkable—a celebration of growth, resilience, and newfound hope as the second and third batches of the Resilience Program (RePro) participants marked their graduation. These brave young souls—Children in Conflict with the Law (CICLs) and young Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) from the Medium Security Camp, NBP Muntinlupa—gathered together after 18 weeks of self-discovery and empowerment. RePro is more than just a program; it’s a life-changing experience offered by the Ruben M. Tanseco, S.J. Center for Family Ministries (RMT-CEFAM). This psycho-spiritual, strengths-based initiative has become a cornerstone of the Philippine Jesuit Prison Service Foundation, Inc. (PJPS), guiding these youth to uncover their True Selves and build resilience traits that will help them rise above life’s challenges. Words That Inspire and Heal The graduation ceremony wasn’t just about certificates and applause—it was a heartfelt moment filled with stories of change, strength, and renewed hope. PJPS Staff, Volunteers, RePro Facilitators, RMT-CEFAM members, and BuCor Officers all stood proud, witnessing the powerful transformation of these young individuals. The day was filled with touching testimonies from our participants who shared their journeys of growth and realization: Mark: "Natuto akong patawarin ang sarili ko at tanggapin kung sino ako." Dario: "Pagmamahal sa sarili at pagpapakumbaba—hindi ko lang ito natutunan kundi ipinadama sa akin ng RePro." Garce: "Lahat ng tao ay may pinagdadaanan. Ang natutunan ko ay mag-set ng goals at manatiling kalmado." Jester: "Magtiwala sa sarili at mahalin ang sarili, iyon ang pinakamahalagang aral ng RePro." Toni: "Ang pagpapatawad at pasasalamat, araw-araw. The choice is mine to make my life better." These words echo the powerful message that even within the walls of confinement, the journey to self-discovery and healing never stops. It’s driven by faith, courage, and the incredible support of the RePro program. RMT-CEFAM’s Words of Wisdom Our cherished RMT-CEFAM founders, Teresita “Tita Tere” Tanseco-Cruz and Maria Dolores “Tita Dolly” T. Del Rosario, shared their love and wisdom with the graduates. Teresita “Tita Tere” Tanseco-Cruz, one of the creators of RePro, spoke from the heart: “Ang babaonin ko galing sa RePro ay isang masayang puso at puno ng pag-asa. Ang REPRO ay psycho-spiritual—wala itong katuturan kung hindi tayo nakakapit sa Panginoon.” Maria Dolores “Tita Dolly” T. Del Rosario added, “Kayo ang aking inspirasyon, bawat isa sa inyo. Ang REPRO ay pamamaraan ng Diyos ng pagpapakilala at paglapit niya sa kanyang mga minamahal na anak.” Their heartfelt words reminded everyone that true transformation begins when you allow faith, hope, and self-love to light your path. Salute to Our Partners and Volunteers This milestone wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and love of our PJPS staff, volunteers, RePro facilitators, RMT-CEFAM, Consuelo Foundation, and BuCor officers. You all made this program a beacon of hope for these young PDLs, guiding them toward a brighter future. This isn’t just the end of a program—it’s the beginning of a lifelong journey to find One’s True Self. Let’s continue rebuilding lives, rekindling hope, and restoring dignity, one step at a time. Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam! #PJPS #ConsueloFoundation #RMTCEFAM #ReProGraduation #BatchTwoAndThree #ResilienceProgram #AdMajoremDeiGloriam