The holiday spirit is in full swing as Christmas approaches, and the young residents of the Bahay Pag-asa Youth Center (BPYC) in Brgy. Irawan, Puerto Princesa, are passionately involved in a creative endeavor: crafting the cherished Christmas lanterns known as “parols.”
Established in compliance with RA 9344, also known as the Juvenile Justice Welfare Act of 2006, BPYC serves as a haven for troubled young Palaweños who have encountered legal challenges.
It offers them the opportunity for rehabilitation and a brighter future.
At BPYC, parol-making has evolved into an integral component of their Livelihood Services program, overseen by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) of the Provincial Government.
Danlyn Atanacio-Gutierrez, the Center Head at BPYC, elaborated, “Livelihood Services are an essential part of our programs and services at Bahay Pag-asa. But what do Livelihood Services entail? They encompass training, activities, and services designed to equip our youth for future economic independence.”
Through these Livelihood Services, young residents are being equipped with diverse livelihood skills to ensure they can secure their financial independence when they eventually leave the center.
In addition to parol-making, the children, particularly those in conflict with the law (CICL), have received training in gardening, poultry-raising, duck farming, and a myriad of other practical skills.
For those wishing to extend their support and offer hope to the young residents of BPYC, there is an opportunity to purchase their handcrafted parols, available in various sizes and at different price points:
Extra Small 10″ – ₱80.00
Small 12” – ₱100.00
Medium 15” – ₱120.00
Large 18” – ₱140.00
To acquire these beautifully crafted lanterns, interested parties can either visit the Bahay Pag-asa Palawan Facebook page or contact Ms. Angelyn Shu at 0950-424-9500.