BARS OF HOPE: THE CONCEPT OF "PAG-ASA" FOR TATAYS WHO SERVE LONG-TERM IMPRISONMENT

This study explored the concept of “Pag-asa” for Tatays who serve long-term imprisonment in the Philippines and its influence on their fatherhood experiences, resilience and personal belief systems. This study also deemed to answer how “Pag-asa” influenced their belief systems, their daily lives, and paternal roles as fathers. Using qualitative approach and semi-structured interviews with six (6) long-term imprisoned fathers, the study revealed that “Pag-asa” is deeply rooted in familial bonds, faith in God and in Philippine prison community practices, providing spiritual resilience as well as emotional strength for the imprisoned Tatays. The findings also revealed that “Pag-asa” helped these fathers to maintain their positivity, purpose, and endurance despite being imprisoned. Furthermore, the study affirmed that “Pag-asa” is an integral supplement for the resilience and fatherhood of these imprisoned Tatays. This study emphasizes the need for tailored interventions that strengthen familial, spiritual, and community connections to enhance resilience and foster “Pag-asa” among imprisoned fathers.