Closer… like family – University of Batangas (UB) Community Extension Services (CES) Office volunteered in the 38th Prison Awareness Sunday together with the Commission on Prison Pastoral Care of Archdiocese of Lipa and Volunteers in Prison Service (VIPS) on October 26, 2025 at the Provincial Jail of Malainin, Ibaan.
UB, together with other volunteering organizations, brought the Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) closer to the feeling of home.
The program featured listening and wellness sessions to provide psychosocial support, distribution of hygiene kits and food packs, and recreational games for approximately 900 PDLs.
The CES Coordinators, student government representatives, and private volunteers shared a collective belief – that humanity thrives in the unbreakable bond of unity and compassion.
“Our collective effort brought not only relief and laughter but also a renewed sense of light and hope that radiated throughout the six jail cells — a meaningful reminder of the power of compassion and community service,” shared Mr. John Rey Banlasan, External Programs Coordinator of the CES Office.
Behind the university’s commitment to be among the leading institutions in compassion-driven outreach programs lies its mission to nurture purpose and broaden perspectives through experiential learning and community involvement.
In line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), UB observed SDG 3 (Good Health), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) in pursuit of authentic service to humanity.
VIPS operates under the faithful leadership of Minor Basilica & Parish of the Immaculate Conception and Archdiocesan Shrine of Sto. Niño ng Batangan.