Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center

Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center

The Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center, often referred to as the “Cebu Provincial Jail,” is located in Cebu City. Once notorious for violent incidents, the prison has now gained fame for its group dancing, which has helped restore its reputation and drawn attention from other prisons in the Philippines, shedding more light on conditions there.

In a creative move, the center replaced the inmates’ regular drills with group dancing. Initially, the prisoners were resistant, but over time they gradually embraced it, coming to see music as a positive force that aids communication. Music and dance have cleansed their spirits, taught them how to love, and helped them forget the bad things. Some even say it’s home to “prisoners with the most beautiful smiles.” The group dancing has not only transformed the inmates, but also gone viral online, causing a huge sensation. The dancers were even invited to perform at the provincial capitol building for a large audience, showcasing several routines including “Thriller.”

Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center

Why Go: The world’s most musical prison

Continent: Asia

Country/Region: Philippines

Province/State: Central Visayas

City: Cebu City