For product development, try going directly to jail

DISHWASHING liquid for only P25

It’s a special project of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) under the leadership of Chief Supt. and Regional Director Serafin P. Barretto.  Detainees (they have yet to receive a prison sentence and are thus presumed innocent until proven guilty) are given the opportunity to develop livelihood skills through entrepreneurship training and other activities.

Recently, BJMP launched a showcase of various products around the Calabarzon area.  For a limited time, ordinary citizens were given the opportunity to sample soap (P5), dishwashing liquid (P25), fan (P15), and other products made of recycled paper, such as plates (P200 per dozen), flowers (P100 for 4 pieces), bags (P250), ships (P200) and even paintings (P3,200 for one artwork)—all coming directly from jail.

According to BJMP staff, the detainees provide capital for the products themselves and all profits also go to them.  Interested businessmen who would like to subcontract services may coordinate with the warden and inmate welfare development officer.  They can also check out www.bjmp.gov.ph for more details.

BEADED purses are among the labor-intensive products available.

It was mentioned that SM Kultura has been a customer having commissioned the exclusive production of one of their inmates’ galleons.  Management is willing to work with potential clients on possible customization of products.  They are keen on increasing productivity of detainees while awaiting their sentences in their dormitories (such is the politically correct word to use).

All told, you may be surprised to discover that even in seemingly remote and forgotten places, talent awaits to be discovered and perfected.