HUNDREDS of women behind bars in Mindanao gained access to free legal services on Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, as the Department of Justice Action Center’s (Dojac) Katarungan Caravan made its way to the Correctional Institution for Women in Davao del Norte.
LEGAL AID FOR HER Close to 300 women Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) received counselling on Good Conduct Time Allowance, parole, executive clemency, appeal, and other legal remedies. PHOTO FROM DOJ
The effort was powered by more than 90 volunteer lawyers and law students, supported by Integrated Bar of the Philippines Davao, the Public Attorney’s Office, prosecutors from Region 11 (Davao), private practitioners, and local law schools.
DOJ Undersecretary-in-Charge Margarita Gutierrez, who leads the Dojac, said the initiative proves that legal aid can reach even the most vulnerable, “Every caravan we hold is a step toward real justice in real time. In Pampanga and Davao del Norte alone, we reached almost 700 Filipinos — giving them the chance to know and exercise their rights. These milestones prove that collaboration and volunteerism can transform lives, even with limited resources. With stronger support, we can expand our reach and give more Filipinos the justice they deserve.”
The Davao caravan also earned support from Migs Nograles-Almario, former PBA Party-list representative and founding partner of the Nograles, Ilagan, Cayco, Lizada, Dabi (NICLD) Law Firm), who joined with colleagues pledging ongoing help for women PDLs.
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The mission followed the caravan’s stop in Magalang, Pampanga, where nearly 400 residents received similar assistance. Together, the two activities brought justice services to almost 700 Filipinos in just one week.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla reaffirmed the program’s role in the government’s justice agenda.
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The Dojac’s Katarungan Caravan is next set to travel to Dagupan and Roxas, continuing its drive to bring government services directly to communities.
