Challenges and Changes: Assessment of Aftercare Programs for Reintegrated Persons Deprived of Liberty

Community pillar is the "first contact" of the PDL upon release, and how they will be able to adjust and avoid recidivism still accounts for the support of the other agencies-aftercare programs. The purpose of this study is to assess the aftercare programs of reintegrated PDL, including the aftercare programs offered, the impact of aftercase programs on their personal, social, and livelihood, and their effectiveness . To draw attention to challenges that they face upon re-entry, particularly in aftercare programs. This study also aimed to serve as an encouragement to actively promotre and maintain aftercare programs to achieve successful integration. The study is qualitative research with the application of phenomenological research design. The co-researchers of this research are five (5) reintegrated PDLs of Lucena City in Barangay Dalahican and Barangay Ibabang Iyam who are currently undergoing or have undergone aftercare programs or services. The study revealed that aftercare programs provide a path for change, particularly in their personal life, as they were able to change their wrong behaviors, set their priorities better (family first), and practice abstinence (avoiding the influence of peers and no drug use). However, there are some challenges in the aftercare of reintegrated PDL, such as unemployment and societal stigma, and they emphasized the need for the continual implementation of aftercare programs to guide and help them in their re-entry. One recommendation is to continue the dissemination of information to the community about aftercare through the manifestation of tarpaulin to raise awareness about the aftercare programs.