LIVED EXPERIENCES OF PERSONS DEPRIVED OF LIBERTY (PDLs) IN THE THERAPEUTIC COMMUNITY MODALITY PROGRAM (TCMP) AS IMPLEMENTED IN SELECTED JAILS OF CALABARZO

This study aimed to evaluate the implementation of the Therapeutic Community Modality Program (TCMP) of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology in selected jails of CALABARZON. To facilitate the study, a qualitative type of study which employed the phenomenological approach was used. It focused on the lived experiences of the first-time offenders inside the jail facilities about the Therapeutic Community Modality Program and its impact to their behavioral, psychological, emotional, educational, spiritual, and vocational aspects. The primary participants were the first-time offender persons deprived of liberty (PDL) in Batangas City Jail, Calamba City Jail, San Pablo City District Jail, Lucena City District Jail, and Quezon District Jail. This query revealed that therapeutic community served as a door of opportunities for persons deprived of liberty (PDL). The program helped them correct their mistakes and shape up their behaviors. They have encountered are lot of realizations through their participation in the activities. They believed that the program gave them a second chance to move forward, learn, and grow up. They have learned to pray the rosary, interpret Bible verses, socialize, and comply with the rules and regulations inside the institution. Likewise, the therapeutic community fostered behavioral and emotional maturity, developed them into a God-centered individual, and enhanced their skills and intellect. However, there are some challenges that the TCMP is facing such as the lack of counselor and inability to encourage the participation of their PDLs. One recommendation is to strengthen the after-care services of the BJMP personnel through coordination not only with the Parole and Probation Office and local government unit but also with the barangay officials to continue the monitoring of inmates once they are reintegrated to the community.