Health Update: MSSD extends social, wellness services to 64 PDLs in Malabang – What Experts Say

MALABANG, Lanao del Sur — The Ministry of Social Services and Development’s (MSSD) office in Lanao del Sur’s second district delivered a full suite of social, wellness, medical, and legal services to 64 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Malabang District Jail on Thursday, Jan. 22, in line with the 7th Bangsamoro Foundation Anniversary celebration.

The activity aimed to provide essential services and support to PDLs as part of the Ministry’s commitment to inclusive and rights-based social protection.

Each PDL received welfare goods and hygiene kits to help meet their daily needs. The outreach also featured a range of wellness-focused activities, including mental health and psychosocial support sessions, stress management activities, rehabilitative games, and a Zumba session.

Medical consultations and medicines were provided through the Provincial Government, in coordination with the Provincial Health Office and the Malabang Rural Health Unit. The Public Attorney’s Office assigned to the district also offered free legal consultations.

Medical Social Welfare Officer Asnia D. Paudac said the activity reflects BARMM’s commitment to ensuring that individuals in specialized circumstances are included in regional programs and services as the region marks another milestone.

Jaslin Masbud, MSSD’s Provincial Social Welfare Officer for Lanao del Sur’s second district noted that access to social services plays a key role in protecting PDLS’ rights and supporting their rehabilitation.

“Outreach activities for persons deprived of liberty are important to protect their dignity and rights, and to ensure they receive proper social services, even in specialized circumstances,” she said.

These activities support their rehabilitation, mental well-being, and prepare them for successful reintegration into society—because justice must always go with compassion and care,” Masbud continued. (Norjana Malawi/BIO)