Yutaka Osakabe, a student of graduate studies from Rikkyo University in Japan is working on his thesis on Restorative Justice. He visited the Philippines last January 27, 2010 in time for the celebration event of Sycamore Tree Project, Prison Fellowship International’s model of Restorative Justice.
Tess Uadan (NPMP vice president) and Yutaka Osakabe
Sycamore Tree Project
Despite brewing tension between gang affiliates, Yutaka still felt the warm welcome extended to him by religious volunteer officers who joined him and the inmates inside the maximum security of the New
Bilibid Prison. He was also given the chance to talk to one Japanese inmate who has been befriended by a Korean, a fellow inmate. He was able to pray for the Japanese.
National Prison Ministries Philippines, Inc. (NPMP) also welcomed and assisted Seongyong Park from Seoul, Korea when he visited last November 2009. He came to see the Sycamore Tree Project at work in New Bilibid Prison. He was briefed on Restorative Justice by Tessie Uadan, vice chairperson of NPMP, prior to his visit inside the prison for a first-hand experience.
Seongyong Park was also given the chance to give a short message at the Spokesman Club which followed right after the Sycamore Tree Project at another dorm area.
NPMP welcomes anyone who would like to participate with the restoration of inmates. Contact us for details.
