From Captivity to Community: Experiences of Former Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL)

This study explored the experiences of former Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) as they navigate the complex transition from incarceration to community reintegration. This answers to their problems regarding their experiences, how they cope with challenges, and their aspiration in improving their lives. The study utilized phenomenological research design involving ten informants subjected to in-depth interviews using purposive sampling method and conducted in the locality of Ormoc City. A validated interview guide was also used during the study. Eventually, the data gathered were treated through Interpretative Phenomenological Approach (IPA) and created eight themes that best represent the lived experiences, coping with the challenges and aspiration to improve their lives: The Seeker of New Beginning, Bridges Beyond the Bars, The Pains of Imprisonment, Impact of Isolation, The Scaffolding of Reintegration, Reclaiming Identity Through Faith, Legacy and Giving Back and View of the Next Chapter. By the first theme answers their life after they found a new hope, second theme acknowledged the help of the agency in providing support, the third theme shows the hardship they had while being imprison, fourth theme conveys the effect of solitude, fifth theme recognize the efforts of the facilities in rehabilitating them, sixth theme describe the ways the programs and having faith help them face adversaries, seventh theme expresses their desire to repay the things they received to others. and lastly the eight theme presents the motivation they have to create a better life. Persons Deprived of Liberty must take steps to change so that those programs can easily benefit them. Families of those deprived of liberty are encouraged to express support, compassion and understanding during the rehabilitation process. The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology plays a significant role in reform, implementation, guidance and direction. Furthermore, collaboration with other essential agencies and communities that provides regulations that contributes to the creation of a safer community for them.