The Second International Conference on Inmates’ Transformative Education for Successful Re-entry is held at the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), Obrero, Davao City from August 14-15, 2019. The two-day event is an output of the partnership of USeP and the Social Entrepreneurship Technology and Business Institute (SETBI) Inc. The two institutions are partners in the implementation of the College Education Behind Bars in Maa City Jail, Davao City.

With the theme “Rethinking Rehabilitation: Community in Unity, Obstacles and Realities”, the conference is participated in by faculty members and researchers from different parts of the country and abroad as well as personalities from the Bureau of Corrections, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, Dangerous Drugs Board, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, City Anti-drug Abuse Council, selected USeP faculty, students and other guests.

Dr. Aland K. Mizell, SETBI President and Dr. Danilo B. Pacoy, USeP VP for Research, Development, and Extension delivered the welcome remarks. The University President, Dr. Lourdes C. Generalao, also gave her message to the guests and participants.

Among the Keynote Speakers who graced the event are Dr. Emma Hughes, Criminology Department Professor of California State University, United States of America; Secretary Catalino S. Cuy, Chairman of Dangerous Drugs Board who was represented by Ms. Doris Dorigo; and Atty. Behn Joseph O. Tesiorna, Assistant Regional Director of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region XI.

The testimonies of successful former inmates turned students served as the highlight of the morning session.  The keynote messages and plenary presentations as well as sharing of experiences on education behind bars filled the afternoon session.

It can be recalled that in May 2018, the USeP and SETBI organized the same international conference.