350 inmates received hygiene kits, prayers, and songs that uplifted their heavy hearts during the Jail Ministry conducted by the SULADS Sulu Cluster volunteers on November 15, 2024. Socio-economic Uplift, Literacy, Anthropological, and Developmental Services (SULADS), dedicated to reaching and serving unreached communities while establishing friendships and strong connections, has initiated this project to extend care and support to Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) in the Sulu Provincial Jail and Jolo Detention Center.
The hygiene kits contained essential items such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, candy, and paper. Mohammad Reza J. Tangkaan, the Jail Administrator of Jolo District Jail, expressed sincere gratitude to the SULADS SULU Cluster, led by Supervisor Junarey Duarte, for their compassionate initiative. “I hope that this will just be the beginning of your future visits here,” Mohammad Reza said in one of his statements during their courtesy call in his office.
Despite the congested conditions inside each cell in the jail, the inmates warmly welcomed the volunteers. As a token of appreciation, the inmates presented handmade gifts, including flowers, wallets, and origami. Over ten volunteers participated, some bringing their families, such as Sir Kyneth Lloren, the current SULADS Sulu Cluster President.
The inmates, deprived of visits for several months, were visibly moved by the presence of the volunteers, especially the children. An inmate could not stop himself and engaged in conversations with the children, a father who continuously longed to see their child once again while sharing stories and laughter.
By sharing inspirational messages from the Scriptures, also known as the Al-Kitab, SULADS Junarey with the volunteers also graced Jolo District Jail with inspiring songs. Words and smiles have been the inmates’ significant response as they convey their heartfelt gratitude to the SULADS Sulu Cluster volunteers.
