LIVED-EXPERIENCES OF ASKAL GANG RECRUIT: THE STUDY OF CRIMINAL BEHAVIORS AMONG MINORS

This study focused on minor "Askal Gang" recruits in the municipality of Roxas, Zamboanga del Norte, to describe their experiences as to joining the same and the criminal behavior they developed during their membership in the gang during this academic year, 2023-2024. It subjected five (5) minors who were purposively selected and were interviewed together with their parents, DSWD, and PNP representatives. It used Husserl's phenomenology and Colaizzi's method for analyzing data. It was found out that the influence of peers, the absence of support from parents, and the urgent need for protection and safety are the primary motivating factors behind the Askal gang. In many cases, illegal behaviors like theft and rambling fights are the result of the dynamics of the gang. To add insult to injury, members are often driven to do criminal acts by economic incentive in order to overcome financial difficulties and satisfy their requirements. Thus, the study recommends establishing community-driven initiatives to help vulnerable adolescents, such as mentoring and recreational activities, and implementing outreach programs to address peer pressure and economic motivations. Strengthening community policing and fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and the community can also help reduce gang membership as a self-preservation strategy. Future researchers are encouraged to benchmark these results.