The Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) brought compassion and hope to the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong City on March 12, 2024, through an outreach program themed “Saya Ibahagi sa Correctional Institution for Women (SICIW).” This meaningful initiative was part of the 2024 National Women’s Month Celebration, which carried the sub-theme “Lipunang Patas sa Bagong Pilipinas: Kakayahan ng Kababaihan, Patutunayan.”

Designed to reach an often-overlooked sector of society, the program focused on inclusivity, rehabilitation, and women’s empowerment. It aimed to inspire and uplift women deprived of liberty (PDLs), particularly those who seldom receive visitors. PNOC identified 50 “unvisited” PDLs as beneficiaries, providing each with hygiene packs containing toilet paper, laundry soap, shampoo, body soap, toothpaste, and toothbrushes—essentials that can greatly improve their daily living conditions.

The day’s activities began with a holy mass led by Fr. JSSUPT Juan Buban, Chief of the Chaplaincy Service Office of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), setting a solemn yet hopeful tone. This was followed by a short program where the PDLs showcased their talents through vibrant dance numbers and heartfelt songs.

PNOC President Oliver B. Butalid delivered an inspiring message about resilience, hope, and the power of self-worth, while Ms. Ma. Rowena C. Raymundo offered an uplifting talk on women’s empowerment, encouraging the participants to embrace their strength and potential.

The program concluded with the distribution of hygiene packs and packed lunches to the 50 beneficiaries, leaving smiles on their faces and a renewed sense of hope in their hearts.

This outreach is part of PNOC’s continuing commitment to social responsibility and aligns with the 2024 National Women’s Month advocacy to empower women from all walks of life—proving that compassion knows no boundaries.