Minority Care International (MCI)  Distributes Eyeglasses in Barangay Cebuano, South Cotabato

Posted on September 29, 2025 by admin

By Shaira Arida , September 29,2025

Clear vision is essential not only for health but also for quality of life and productivity. In the Philippines, the eyeglasses market faces challenges such as limited manufacturing capacity, uneven distribution between urban and rural areas, and high prices that make basic vision correction unaffordable for many. In a crucial role, civil society organizations can leverage innovative models to deliver affordable and accessible eye care, often filling the gaps left by public sector efforts. To fill a gap in various communities, Minority Care International (MCI) has dispensed thousands of reading eyeglasses in fourteen distributions, including to the Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) in the Davao Penal and Prison Farm (DaPeCol). Recognizing the profound impact MCI’s Restoring Vision annual eye care projects have had on individuals’ lives, we performed more than 290 eye check-ups and dispensed more than 200  reading glasses to the Cebuano Barangay in South Cotabato. Dr. Audrey Kim Delin and her husband Dr. Lendl Sam Delin joined us as hospital volunteers to conduct eye exams, having labeled all lens strengths before the distribution. Also, to further serve community needs, Nurse Andrea and 4th year Medtech student Yakup Celik conducted free blood pressure screening for the eye care donees. According to one recipient, he appreciated MCI’s community outreach project because eye checks and glasses are very expensive with the consequence that most do not have glasses and, thus, have untreated problems.Through this service MCI scholars continue to learn to give back to their community. An MCI scholarship beneficiary currently studying tourism at the University of Mindanao in her second year, Shaira Arida is from Cebua no Barangay South Cotabato. Even as a student, she organized the MCI eye care event with her Barangay SK officials to extend the MCI eye care project to her community. Shaira gave an opening message before the distribution.“Good morning, everyone! I am Shaira Arida, the Public Relations Officer of the Minority Care International Student Association, or MCISA. It is a great honor and a pleasure to stand before you today to witness this meaningful event. Before we begin, I would like to introduce the visionary behind our program, none other than our founder, Dr. Aland Mizell. We also have with us today Attorney Susan Cariaga, the Vice President of the Social Entrepreneurship, Technology and Business Institute, or SETBI. I would like to thank Dr. Audrey Kim Delin and Dr. Lendi Sam Delin for being here and helping us  with the distribution of the eye glasses for without their presence this event would not happened. Thank you for coming.  I would like to thank Barangay officials, headed by Noel Dela Cruz, and our SK officials, headed by Honey Grace Enario, for allowing us to conduct our 14th distribution of eye glasses in varies communities, including Barangay Linan. MCI’s Restoring Vision projects recognizes the profound impact of clear vision on individuals’ lives. Continue reading →

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SETBI 4th International Conference 2025 in Partnered with Davao del Norte State College, Panabo City, Philippines

Posted on September 12, 2025 by admin

SETBI Conference 2025 in Davao del Norte State College, Panabo City, Philippines

CALL FOR ABSTRACT AND REGISTRATION

The Social Entrepreneurship, Technology, Business, and Institute (SETBI), in partnership with Davao del Norte State College (DNSC), is hosting the 4th International Conference on Transformative Higher Education for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL). This conference, themed “Strengthening the Movement,” offers a critical platform for reexamining the complex relationships between education, rehabilitation, and reintegration.The conference aims to convene global experts and stakeholders to harness the transformative power of higher education. By fostering successful re-entry and promoting restorative justice, we can prioritize the human rights, dignity, and potential of PDLs. Through collaborative dialogue and knowledge-sharing, this conference seeks to strengthen movements and build futures that support the rehabilitation and reintegration of PDLs.

Important Dates and Fees
Participation Guidelines
Conference Venue

EMMA HUGHES, Ph.D
Professor of Criminology at the California State University, Fresno

Dr. Emma Hughes

Dr. Emma Hughes is a Professor in the Criminology Department at California State University, Fresno, joining in 2007. She holds a Ph.D. in Criminology from Birmingham City University (UK) and previously taught there for five years. Her research focuses on jails and prisons, particularly rehabilitation programs and prison education. She authored Education in Prison: Studying through Distance Learning (2012) and contributed chapters on prison education and voluntary sector roles in prisons. She co-edited The Voluntary Sector in Prisons (2016). Dr. Hughes advises the Fresno County Local Criminal Justice Coordinating Council on jail population dynamics. She also founded Project Rebound at Fresno State, supporting formerly incarcerated students, and served as Department Chair from 2015 to 2020.

SHIRLEY C. AGRUPIS, PH.D.
Commissioner and Chairperson, Commission on Higher Education (CHED)

Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis

Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis is a Filipino academic leader and government official currently serving as the chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) since 2025. She previously served as president of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) from 2017 to 2024, where she is also a full professor. Dr. Agrupis earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from MMSU, a master’s degree from the University of the Philippines Los Baños, and a Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences from universities in Japan. Her academic focus includes plant morpho-anatomy, physiology, wood, and cellulose chemistry.

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Minority Care International (MCI) Celebrates the another Batch of College Scholars Graduated

Posted on September 10, 2025 by admin

Minority Care International (MCI) Celebrates the another Batch of College Scholars Graduated

By Shaira Arida

MCI  had reason to celebrate another batch of college scholars graduated from University of Mindanao in Davao City on August26,2025. Theresa Adil graduated with a degree in Social work. Farhana Undin graduated with a degree in Mathematics.  It is a gratifying to see the impact of MCI program has made in the lives many Filipinos and their families. MCI supported their efforts through the years and we are so proud of these students who have made it all the way through college graduation and received College Degree to help them to have better future. Theresa Adil, studied hard and strived to get good grades. With Adil’s determination, and help of MCI mentorship and financial support , she was able to graduate at the top of her class. With her family facing financial hardship, MCI stepped in and helped Ms. Adil attend College where she graduated with BS in Social work. Always, setting high goals for herself , she was recognized for her efforts and received and academic Excellence . “ MCI mean lot to me , mean everything to me . More than given educational , needs , it is a holistic needs, MCI molded us , and gave us all the tools that we need to succeed and guided is to brighter future.” Farhana Undin , as a young girl she loved learning. With the help of MCI and her passion for learning, Ms. Undin was able to get a degree in Mathematics from University of Mindanao . “ I hope, I can also be an instrument of change for the future. Beins a Scholar of MCI has thought me that and so much more.” Continue reading →

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SETBI’s First Retreat Inside College Education Bars at Davao Prison and Penal Farm Campus

Posted on September 10, 2025 by admin

SETBI’s First Retreat Inside College Education Bars at Davao Prison and Penal Farm Campus

By Shaira Arida  

       SETBI Partnered with The Minority Care International Student Association (MCISA) successfully conducted it’s first-ever one-day retreat inside SEBTI ‘s DAPECOL campus on August 6, 2025. The event marked a milestone for the institution as it combined education, faith, and fellowship in a unique setting that bridged communities inside and outside the facility. There was no distinguished each other based in who lives behind bars or the outside the bars; there was only a common brotherhood of men and women setting aside time to draw closer to God and each other. The program began with the opening remarks from Dr. Aland Mizell, who highlighted the importance of education and transformation even within prison walls. He then introduced Dr. Gloria

       The retreat was structured into two main sessions. The morning session featured the book reading, group discussions and the sharing of personal reflections. Students related their own struggles and hopes to Zamperini’s experiences, finding strength in his perseverance. The afternoon session was filled with engaging activities such as volleyball, basketball, chess, and scrabble. A total of 79 SETBI students participated in the event. These activities fostered camaraderie and a sense of normalcy, highlighting the holistic purpose of the retreat.

       A total of 79 SETBI students inside the facility actively participated in the retreat. From outside, MCISA members prepared food and snacks, including chicken barbecue, to share with everyone. This simple act of service symbolized unity and care, breaking barriers that often exist between those inside and outside correctional institutions.

      Meanwhile, MCISA members from outside the campus prepared meals and snacks, including chicken barbecue, for the participants and the guests. Contrary to initial expectations, the atmosphere inside was warm and welcoming. The genuine smiles and respectful attitude of the SETBI students deeply touched the MCISA students, breaking stereotypes and it changes our perspectives among them.

       The retreat was not only an academic and spiritual activity but also a powerful demonstration of rehabilitation through education and community support. SETBI College Education Behind Bars continues to show that individuals, regardless of their circumstances, can grow, learn, and contribute positively when given opportunities.

      This event concluded with renewed encouragement for both students and facilitators. It left a lasting impression that transformation is possible when compassion, learning, and faith intersect. More than just an academic exercise, it was a fellowship of hearts- an opportunity to see beyond labels and embrace the humanity we all share. My take way from the retreat inside, if you are lost, you can look for God, the Holy Spirit is just filling this place. Our Job is to open the door and let the Holy Spirit Work

Shaira Arida is the SETBI MEDIA team, She studies at the University of Mindanao , Major in BS in Tourism Management

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What are the benefits of Joining MCI’s  Student Association ?

Posted on September 9, 2025 by admin

Engagement in study groups outside of class can have many benefits for our students. Minority Care International Student Association MCISA provide students with valuable skills that cannot necessarily be learned from sitting in. a classroom Minority Care International Student Association Resume its Weekly study Forum for 2025-2026 SY. MCISA President Jeremy Jimlan , underlined the important of join MCISA weekly study forum. Because  Engaging in MCISA weekly study forum discussions equips students with the necessary life skills to express themselves articulately in a formal  environment, navigate and critically evaluate  information, and engage in respectful and constructive dialogues. President Jimlan, talked about how weekly  discussions offer numerous benefits for these students actively participate the forum , it is important to consider the design and facilitation of these discussions to ensure their effectiveness. Additionally, fostering a supportive and inclusive learning community is crucial to promote meaningful engagement and active participation. MCISA weekly discussions can be valuable for fostering communication and exchanging ideas, Constructivism plays a pivotal role in higher education due to its emphasis on active learning, critical thinking, and the development of lifelong skills.It is not secret that helping others and contributing  to one’s community through positive , impact action  makes people feel good. For Students , spending sometimes volunteering can be very helpful in many ways .MCI’s weekly forum gives students the opportunity to give their times and talents to support a cause that’s important and close their heart. Given back to the community helps students to reflect own their own impact. MCI’s weekly study forum offers skills building opportunities while improving the lives of other. The hands on learning , projects like tools for school, eye care distributions, food bank for PDLS  gives students the competitive edge needed as they enter the job market. MCI weekly study forum also teach students the importance of the time management as they are forced to learn how to balance their organization responsibilities with their academics. MCI Student Association emerge as vibrant avenues for social engagement. Joining MCI students Association can yield long term benefits. Enhances students university experiences , promoting personal growth and great moments.

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SETBI College Education Behind Bars at Davao Prison and Penal Farm Campus Awards Seven Degrees and Hosts Second Bachelor’s Degree Ceremony

Posted on September 3, 2025 by admin

SETBI College Education Behind Bars at Davao Prison and Penal Farm Campus Awards Seven Degrees and Hosts Second Bachelor’s Degree Ceremony

August 26, 2025 

This week marked a profound and historic celebration for the second ever graduation ceremony of the Social Entrepreneurship Technology Business Institute (SETBI) College Education Behind Bars (CEBB) and Davao del Norte State College (DNSC). The SETBI-DNSC event took place on August 26, at the CEBB’s second campus, this one at the  Davao Prison and Penal Farm (DaPeCol). After completing the program’s stringent academic requirements, seven Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) were officially declared graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship. They are the second cohort to graduate from SETBI–DNSC College Education Behind Bars campus at DaPeCol. “Prison does not have to be a personal hell hole; it can drive positive change if PDL make it their own university, career training center, or seminary, as you have done. This degree can improve your life so you can reenter society as a productive law-abiding citizen,” said Dr. Aland Mizell, President and Founder of the first College Education Behind Bars program in the Philippines and even in Southeast Asia. He continued, “We believe that every student deserves a second chance to grow and to build a life of meaningfulness. Our graduates in the College Education Behind Bars have embraced this opportunity with courage and perseverance while also finding renewed purpose in their lives. Prison is a tough place: it is neither designed for reform nor geared toward transformation. To gain a degree in higher education in prison is no easy task; there are obstacles in every direction. But obstacles do not mean defeat. Prison can de a defining experience in your life, but not the definition of you. Your graduation from this program will redefine your destiny. Life is about the choices we make including deciding to use our troubled past to enhance our future.”SETBI’s College Education Behind Bars exemplifies the importance of second chances and personal development. “These men have overcome many obstacles that most of us can’t even imagine. They are well on their way to being resilient, independent, and forward living citizens, and we are very proud of them,” said Mizell.

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Minority Care International Students Association Annual Retreat: The “Unbroken” Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption

Posted on August 30, 2025 by admin

Minority Care International Students Association Annual Retreat: The “Unbroken” Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption

By Jeremy Jimlan

DAVAO CITY – The Minority Care International Students Association (MCISA) three days annual retreat held from August 8, 2025, at Emilia Healing Resort, was an immersive experience for the MCISA students and other participants. The books we studied at the retreat this year was ‘Unbroken’ a World War II story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand. The book tells, in vivid detail, the story of former Olympic runner and WWII POW Louis Zamperini and it covers his goal to win an Olympic medal in the 1936 Berling Games, his disappointment at having 1940 games cancelled , his enlistment in the US Army , his WWII experience in training running  bomber and rescue mission in the South Pacific, the crash of is plane, his 47 days lost at the sea, and his two brutal years in Japanese POW camps. The book is filled with incredible historical details and lessons and fascinating anecdotes as we walk alongside Louie and his journey. We then find Post WWII, trying to recover his life that was, finding love and loss, the battle with his was demons and finally redemption. The event brought together student leaders and SETBI students form College Education Behind Bars, creating a unique space for reflection on survival, resilience, and redemption. The discussion centered on Louie Zamperini’s journey of faith, as depicted in Unbroken. Participants explored how Zamperini’s spiritual awakening, even in the most desperate of circumstances as a prisoner of war, offered him a sense of peace and purpose. Continue reading →

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fter a hiatus of several years, MCI popular student exchange program makes a comeback.

Posted on June 1, 2025 by admin

After a hiatus of several years, MCIpopular student exchange program makes a comeback. MCI sent this year Lynnyth Valera Aguilar to Texas for summer program.

The MCI Cultural Student Exchange program is designed with the following objectives:

  • To supplement the student’s theoretical knowledge with a practical work experience.
  • To provide opportunities to develop critical thinking, problem solving skills by being engaged in real life work situation.
  • To develop skills and an understanding of the work place to assist in the transition from the academia to the medical institutions after graduation.
  • To learn to work well with patients, other nurses, physicians, families, and other health care team members to give patient-centered care.
  • To broaden the student’s experience by exposure to clinical experience in another culture.

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MCISA’s Student Leaders Take Oath of Office for 2025-2026

Posted on May 17, 2025 by admin

The newly elected set of MCISA officers took their oath and accepted the challenges of serving their community for academic year 2025-2026 in front of the group MCISA members on September May 11, 2025. At the MCI Weekly Study Forum, 40-45 college students from across the universities come together to explore currents topics such as war, violence, poverty, peace building, human trafficking, hate, and suicide–issues facing their generation. The new officers are determined to implement its global goals. MCI’s weekly study forum is crucial because, unlike school communities, it provides a suitable platform for young people to articulate their thoughts and ideas on current social issues, affairs that impact their lives and communities. And  that prepare them to effectively advocate for their views to a wider audience. It is also a space to learn about the importance of weekly exchanges and how to contribute to them effectively, as well as to offer a solid network of support during the weekly study forum. Continue reading →

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Former PDLs  to Marketing World 

Posted on April 25, 2025 by admin

Everyone deserves a second chance and the

opportunity to become a successful business owner if it is a goal. However, in a google era none of us truly escape our past. If someone comes to our door and asks us if we would like our grass cut, we probably would not ask the inquirer about a criminal background. But, if we own a lawn cutting business and are hiring an employee, we will do a criminal record check on the applicants. If an applicant’s background shows a criminal charge, we will likely deny the application for the job. Each of the inmates wants to leave the prison world never to return, but that requires a successful re-entry into society. A huge challenge for the prisons is that when the incarcerated get out, eventually most find themselves back in. In spite of many reasons for the high rate of recidivism, studies show that the primary cause is unemployment. On the outside  they need a job to be able to eat, to have a place to live,  to support their family, to hold their heads high, and to know they can handle freedom. But jobs are hard to find when an individual is an ex-convict. The best way to overcome the prison stigma is by our helping former PDL to start, run, and grow their own business .We want to thank Orchard Road Company’s Vice President Andrew Bautista and his team for conducting a business seminar for our SETBI students outside and the alumni to teach them how to start their own business, how to market it, and how to legally run it, as well as the key principles of marketing, sales, management with tools for selling the property. They learn incentives to generate income and tactics to overcome the systemic discrimination they face in the job market. It is easy to marginalize PDL, but many of them can transform their lives through education, training, entrepreneurship, and human courage.  Those are the ones who deserve a second chance. Thus, this business seminar for the ex-offenders provided the resources and mentorship they need to overcome the stigma fo their criminal charge, to create economic opportunity, and to prevent the societal harm of recidivism.

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