CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – A total of 885 inmates of the Pampanga Provincial Jail skipped three of their meals to help send relief to Yolanda victims in Visayas.
Retired Colonel Edwin Mangiliman, provincial warden said since the onslaught of the super typhoon the detainees have been watching updates about the situation of the Filipinos in Visayas and he was surprised when they expressed intention to be of help to the victims.
“I think they were moved from what they saw on the television and heard on the news. They ask permission to do a bayanihan of their own,” said Mangiliman.
All the inmates unanimously agreed to skip three breakfasts and convert these into dry goods. They also encourage their visiting families to bring extra supplies to be included in the relief packs.
Lito Mercado, leader of the inmates said despite of being imprisoned they can do something good to other people.
“Yes, we are in prison but we are alive. Our families are safe. We are thankful for these blessings. In return we want to help those who are need,” he said.
The three meals of the inmates cost more than 50,000 pesos. They were able to buy sacks of rice, canned goods, and pail and dipper that they repacked themselves.
Mangiliman disclosed that a store owner was even touched by the effort and sacrifices of the detainees and voluntarily donated 15 cans of biscuits for the relief operation of PPJ.
The provincial warden also added that this move of the inmates is a proof that everyone has a soft heart for the needy even those who are charged by the law.
“I am proud of the inmates of the provincial jail. They own less but they are willing to sacrifice inorder to have something to share,” he said.
By JENNA LUMBANG
