A Business Model for Sustainable Livelihood and Skill Development Programs for Person Deprived of Liberty

Abstract

Livelihood and skill development programs have become an integral part of rehabilitation initiatives for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs). At the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm (IPPF), these programs aim to provide marketable skills, restore self-worth, and prepare inmates for successful reintegration into society. Despite the availability of initiatives such as crop production, handicrafts, retail operations, and cosmetology, challenges persist in aligning acquired skills with post-release employment opportunities and market demands. It is therefore necessary to assess the skills developed, identify barriers to program effectiveness, and design a sustainable business model that ensures long-term livelihood opportunities and market access for PDL-produced goods and services.

The study aimed to examine the profile of respondents, determine the skills developed by PDLs through livelihood programs, identify challenges in program implementation, and propose interventions and a business model to support sustainability and market access.

This study employed an Explanatory Sequential Mixed Methods Design to assess the effectiveness and sustainability of livelihood and skill development initiatives for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm. The respondents included 236 PDLs and 40 stakeholders (BuCor personnel, LGU officials, NGO representatives, and academicians). Purposive and quota sampling were used to ensure inclusion of participants with program involvement and expertise. Data were collected through a validated survey questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis to evaluate skills, challenges, and proposed interventions.

Results revealed that PDLs have acquired essential technical and entrepreneurial skills in agriculture, food production, handicrafts, and service-oriented livelihood projects. However, challenges remain in resource availability, program continuity, and post-release market integration. Stakeholders emphasized the need for stronger inter-agency collaboration, skills certification, and market-driven program design. Proposed interventions include strengthening partnerships with TESDA and LGUs, enhancing training modules, and engaging NGOs in material support and product promotion.

The findings affirm that livelihood programs at IPPF contribute to skill development and rehabilitation of PDLs. However, sustainability challenges highlight the necessity of adopting a comprehensive business model that integrates training, certification, branding, and market linkage. Such a model not only ensures long-term economic opportunities for PDLs but also fosters their dignified reintegration into society.