The Philippines has made significant strides in developing reintegration programs to assist former Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) as they transition back into society.
These programs aim to address the challenges faced by ex-offenders, such as finding employment, rebuilding relationships, and overcoming societal stigma.
Legal Framework Supporting the Reintegration of PDLs in the Philippines
The Philippines lacks a specific, comprehensive law solely dedicated to the reintegration of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs). However, various legal provisions scattered across different laws and policies contribute to the goal of reintegration. Below is an overview of the relevant legal framework that supports the reintegration of former PDLs.
- The Philippine Constitution
The Philippine Constitution lays the foundation for the fair treatment and reintegration of PDLs through several key provisions:
Article III, Section 18: This section guarantees the right of every individual to be presumed innocent until proven guilty. This principle is essential for upholding fair treatment during legal proceedings and helps prevent wrongful incarceration, which is a significant barrier to reintegration.
Article III, Section 19: This section guarantees the right to a speedy disposition of cases. By seeing to it that cases are resolved promptly, this provision helps prevent prolonged detention without trial, which can negatively impact the mental and emotional well-being of PDLs, thus making reintegration more challenging.
- The Revised Penal Code (Act No. 3815)
Article 97: The Revised Penal Code provides for the suspension of sentences under specific conditions after a portion of the sentence has been served. This allows for the conditional release of PDLs, enabling them to begin the process of reintegration into society under supervision.
- The Probation Law (Presidential Decree No. 968)
Section 1: The Probation Law allows for the suspension of the execution of a sentence and the placement of a convicted person under the supervision of a probation officer. This legal provision focuses on the rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders through community-based supervision, reducing the chances of reoffending.
- The Parole Law (Act No. 4103)
Section 1: This law provides for the conditional release of prisoners on parole after they have served a portion of their sentence. Parole allows former PDLs to reintegrate into society with the support of supervised rehabilitation programs, offering them a structured path back into the community.
- The Bureau of Corrections Act (RA 10575)
Section 1: The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Act establishes BuCor as the primary agency responsible for the rehabilitation and reintegration of PDLs. BuCor’s mandate includes providing programs and services aimed at preparing PDLs for their eventual reintegration into society, such as education, skills training, and counseling.
- The Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act (RA 9344)
Section 1: This law focuses on the rehabilitation and reintegration of youth offenders. It emphasizes restorative justice and community-based interventions to support the reintegration of young offenders, so that they are given a second chance to lead productive lives.
- The Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 2002 (RA 9165)
Section 55: This section mandates the establishment of rehabilitation centers and programs for drug dependents. These programs are designed to help individuals recover from addiction and reintegrate into society, reducing the likelihood of relapse and reoffending.
Government Agencies Offering Reintegration Assistance
Several government agencies in the Philippines are involved in the reintegration of former PDLs. These agencies provide various programs aimed at helping ex-offenders rebuild their lives and become self-sufficient members of society.
1. Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)
The DSWD is the primary agency responsible for social welfare services in the Philippines. It offers several programs for former PDLs, including:
Livelihood Assistance: DSWD provides livelihood and skills training programs to help former PDLs become self-sufficient. These programs equip individuals with marketable skills, enabling them to secure stable employment or start their own businesses.
Social Welfare Services: The DSWD also offers counseling and other social welfare services to support former PDLs and their families during the reintegration process. These services are important in addressing the psychological and emotional challenges faced by ex-offenders.
2. Bureau of Corrections (BuCor)
BuCor is responsible for the rehabilitation and reintegration of PDLs while they are incarcerated. The agency offers various programs to prepare PDLs for their release, including:
Education Programs: BuCor provides educational opportunities for PDLs to complete their basic education and pursue higher education. This includes programs like the Alternative Learning System (ALS) and the College Education Behind Bars (CEBB).
Skills Training: BuCor offers vocational training in various trades, such as welding, mechanics, and electronics, to equip PDLs with the skills needed to find employment after their release.
3. Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)
TESDA provides skills training programs tailored to the needs of former PDLs. These programs include:
Short Courses: TESDA offers short courses in various trades, such as dressmaking, carpentry, and culinary arts, which can help former PDLs gain employment.
Technical-Vocational Education and Training (TVET): TESDA’s TVET programs offer comprehensive training that can lead to national certification, making former PDLs more competitive in the job market.
4. Local Government Units (LGUs)
LGUs help facilitate the reintegration process by offering community-based programs and services. These programs often include:
Job Placement Assistance: LGUs may offer job placement services to help former PDLs find employment. These services are typically provided in collaboration with local businesses and NGOs.
Support Services: LGUs also provide counseling, support groups, and other services designed to help former PDLs reintegrate into their communities.
Challenges and Future Directions
While these programs and legal frameworks provide a foundation for the reintegration of former PDLs, several challenges remain.
Lack of a Comprehensive Law: The absence of a dedicated law for the reintegration of PDLs makes it difficult to coordinate and implement comprehensive programs. A more integrated legal approach is needed to address the unique challenges faced by former PDLs.
Funding Constraints: Many reintegration programs face significant funding challenges, limiting their effectiveness and reach. Increasing funding for these programs is essential in order that former PDLs receive the support they need.
Stigma and Discrimination: Overcoming the stigma and discrimination associated with being a former PDL is one of the most significant challenges. Society’s perception of ex-offenders needs to shift towards a more inclusive and supportive stance to facilitate successful reintegration.
Other Organizations Involved
1. Focused Reintegration of Ex-Detainees (FRED) Program
The Humanitarian Legal Assistance Foundation (HLAF) leads the FRED program, which is designed to fill the gap in reintegration support for newly released PDLs.
This program takes a comprehensive approach, offering pre-release programs in selected jails to prepare PDLs for life after incarceration.
Hlaf also focuses on community reintegration, helping former PDLs reconnect with their families and communities.
An essential aspect of this program is reducing the stigma associated with incarceration, which is often a significant barrier to successful reintegration.
Hlaf encourages community involvement by inviting individuals to support former PDLs through donations, training, and simply offering a listening ear.
2. Philippine Jesuit Prison Service Foundation (PJPSF)
The Philippine Jesuit Prison Service Foundation (PJPSF) emphasizes holistic rehabilitation for PDLs during their time in prison.
Through their socio-pastoral program, PJPSF provides PDLs with access to legal, medical, counseling, and feeding services.
Family reintegration is an important part of their approach, facilitating visits between incarcerated individuals and their families to prepare them for life after release.
Additionally, PJPSF offers life skills training to equip PDLs with the necessary tools for reintegration into society.
One of the standout features of PJPSF’s program is their scholarship grant, which supports the education of PDLs’ children, so that the cycle of poverty and crime can be broken.
The foundation also extends reintegration support through financial, livelihood, and employment assistance for former PDLs.
3. Virtualahan
Virtualahan is making waves in the digital education landscape by offering a unique scholarship program that includes former Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) among its beneficiaries.
This is part of Virtualahan’s broader mission to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing them with the skills and support needed to succeed in the digital economy.
Eligibility for Former PDLs
Virtualahan’s scholarship program explicitly lists former PDLs as eligible beneficiaries.
This inclusion underscores the organization’s commitment to creating opportunities for those who have faced significant societal challenges.
By offering access to their comprehensive training and support services, Virtualahan helps former PDLs transition into meaningful employment and reintegrate into society.
Comprehensive Program Overview
The Virtualahan scholarship program is structured to provide a holistic approach to digital skills development and employment readiness.
Intensive Digital Skills Training:
The program begins with five weeks of rigorous training in key areas such as data and automation, digital marketing, website development, design, and customer service.
This training equips scholars with the technical skills required to thrive in today’s digital economy.
Job Coaching and Apprenticeship:
Following the skills training, scholars receive two weeks of tailored job coaching.
This phase focuses on preparing them for the job market by helping with document preparation, interview practice, and educating potential employers about the unique needs of former PDLs.
Additionally, scholars are placed in a three-week apprenticeship with industry experts.
This on-the-job training provides real-world experience and increases the chances of being hired directly by the businesses they apprentice with.
Well-being and Life-Coaching Sessions:
Recognizing the importance of mental and emotional well-being, Virtualahan includes weekly life-coaching sessions led by a psychologist.
These sessions aim to restore dignity and facilitate healing, which is essential for former PDLs as they rebuild their lives.
Impact and Success Rates
Virtualahan has an impressive track record of success.
With over 1,000 graduates and a 60% employment rate, the program has proven effective in helping individuals secure meaningful employment.
For former PDLs, this success rate is particularly significant as it demonstrates the program’s ability to overcome barriers to employment that ex-offenders often face.
Mission of Empowerment
Virtualahan’s mission goes beyond just providing skills training.
The organization aims to empower disadvantaged individuals, including former PDLs, by equipping them with the tools needed to participate in and benefit from the digital economy.
This mission is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves a second chance and that digital skills can be a powerful equalizer.
How to Apply for the Virtualahan Scholarship
Former PDLs interested in applying for the Virtualahan scholarship can follow these steps:
- Visit the Virtualahan Website:
Go to Virtualahan’s enrollment page and click on the “Enroll” button.
- Review Eligibility Requirements:
Carefully read through the eligibility criteria for you to qualify for the scholarship.
- Complete the Application Form:
Fill out the application form provided on the website, making sure to include all necessary information and documents.
- Submit Your Application:
Follow the instructions on the website to submit your application.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, you can contact Virtualahan directly through their website or by phone.
Potential for Job Placements and Internships
Virtualahan’s scholarship program doesn’t just end with training; it extends into helping scholars secure employment.
Job Coaching and Employment Support:
The program includes dedicated job coaching, where scholars receive assistance in finding job opportunities, preparing for interviews, and understanding the expectations of potential employers.
Virtualahan also provides two months of ongoing employment support after the program to help graduates navigate the job market.
Apprenticeship and Real-World Experience:
Successful graduates are placed with agencies and businesses for a three-week apprenticeship.
This hands-on experience is foundational in building confidence and showcasing their skills to potential employers, often leading to direct job placements.
With a 67% employment rate among graduates, Virtualahan has a proven track record of helping scholars secure meaningful employment, making it a valuable resource for former PDLs.
Recent Updates
CHR Supports Increase in Food and Medical Allowances for PDLs
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) endorsed the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology’s (BJMP) appeal for higher budget allocations for food and medical expenses for inmates. Making sure adequate resources for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) is important for their rehabilitation and humane treatment. The CHR emphasized the importance of adhering to international standards to respect the dignity and rights of all individuals, including PDLs. Taking a humane approach to incarceration is pivotal for genuine rehabilitation and social reintegration. Increased support is essential to uphold the inherent dignity of PDLs and promote their well-being. (Manila Times)
BuCor Addresses Concerns of Delayed Releases for PDLs
The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) has assured the public that no person deprived of liberty (PDL) will be held beyond their sentence. The BuCor attributes delays in releases to the failure of court staff to send release orders promptly. To address this, BuCor has implemented an information drive to educate PDLs on legal documentation and procedures for release, promoting a smoother transition back into society. The “Bilis Laya” program has facilitated the release of 15,382 PDLs since June 2022, expediting the processing and release of eligible individuals. These efforts demonstrate BuCor’s commitment to ascertaining that PDLs are released in a timely and orderly manner. (PNA)
2,431 Bilibid PDLs Allowed to Register for 2025 Elections
The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) has allowed 2,431 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) to register as voters for the 2025 elections. This decision is based on Comelec Resolution No. 9731, which allows PDLs to exercise their right to suffrage unless convicted with finality. The registration process is conducted under a special security arrangement led by CSInsp. Henry Avila with support from the Philippine National Police in Muntinlupa City. This move ascertains that PDLs have the opportunity to participate in the democratic process, upholding their constitutional rights. (Manila Bulletin)
Video: From PDL to Media Personnel: Marlon Fernandez Garcia’s Story of Reintegration
Marlon Fernandez Garcia, a former person deprived of liberty (PDL) who is now a media personnel, is a testament to the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs. After serving his sentence, Marlon applied for parole and was released in 2018. He shares his experiences inside San Ramon Penal and Prison Farm, highlighting the transformative impact of programs like livelihood activities and bible studies. Marlon emphasizes the valuable lessons he learned during his time in prison, which have contributed to his successful reintegration into society. His story demonstrates the potential for PDLs to become productive members of society with the right support and opportunities.
Conclusion
The Philippines has developed a range of reintegration assistance programs that have helped many former PDLs rebuild their lives and become productive members of society.
However, there is still much work to be done to overcome the challenges these individuals face.
Continued efforts to reduce stigma, increase funding, and build strong community support are essential to the success of these programs.
By addressing these issues, we can help former PDLs not only reintegrate into society but also thrive as they move forward with their lives.