IMPLICATIONS OF INSTITUTIONAL CORRECTION PROGRAMS FOR PERSONS DEPRIVED OF LIBERTY AT CALOOCAN CITY JAIL : BASIS FOR ACTION PLAN

Abstract

The Philippine penal system emphasizes the rehabilitation of offenders through both institutional and non-institutional corrections. Institutional corrections provide a secure environment for offenders, aiming to reintegrate them into society and reduce recidivism. The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) oversees the administration and operation of district, city, and municipal jails nationwide, focusing on the safekeeping and development of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs). ​  Inmates participate in various programs during their incarceration to aid in their rehabilitation. These programs include educational and vocational training, recreational and spiritual activities, and livelihood projects. For example, BJMP facilities implement programs to enhance inmates' well-being and equip them with skills for post-release employment. BJMP Caloocan City Jail actively engages in community-assisted rehabilitation programs, collaborating with local government units to strengthen rehabilitation efforts. Additionally, studies have highlighted the importance of involving PDLs in disaster risk reduction and management activities, showcasing their potential contributions to community safety. ​   Non-institutional corrections provide alternatives to imprisonment, such as probation and parole, focusing on community-based rehabilitation. The Parole and Probation Administration (PPA) supervises offenders granted probation, parole, pardon, or suspended sentences, offering programs like Restorative Justice and Therapeutic Community to promote reformation and reintegrate offenders into society. These efforts collectively aim to transform offenders into productive and responsible members of society upon their release.​ A study was conducted at BJMP Caloocan City Jail involving sixty (60) Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) enrolled in institutional correction programs. The researchers utilized a survey questionnaire to collect pertinent data and information. Employing a descriptive research design, the study aimed to detail and interpret the characteristics and data of the selected population.​  Descriptive research is commonly used in correctional facility studies to systematically observe and describe phenomena without manipulating variables. This approach is particularly effective in understanding the attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors of correctional staff and inmates. For instance, a descriptive study examined the attitudes and perceptions of correctional officers before and after ten months of employment at a regional correctional facility, revealing shifts in rehabilitation philosophy. The findings from the study at BJMP Caloocan City Jail indicate that the rehabilitation programs have a positive impact on the Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs). The average mean scores for each program are as follows:​  Educational and Vocational Training Programs: Mean score of 3.42​ Spiritual Activities: Mean score of 3.44​ Recreational Activities: Mean score of 3.51​ Livelihood Projects: Mean score of 3.49​ These scores suggest that PDLs generally perceive these programs favorably, acknowledging their positive influence on their rehabilitation process. However, the proximity of these scores to the 'Neutral' point indicates that there may be areas for improvement to enhance engagement and satisfaction with these programs.​  It's important to note that while these interpretations provide a general understanding, the specific wording and scale of the Likert items used in the survey should be considered for a more accurate analysis. Additionally, the ordinal nature of Likert scales implies that while we can rank responses, the intervals between points are not necessarily equal, and thus, mean scores should be interpreted with caution.​  By examining these findings, stakeholders can identify strengths and areas for improvement within the rehabilitation programs, aiming to enhance their effectiveness and better meet the needs of the PDLs To enhance the rehabilitation programs for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at BJMP Caloocan City Jail, both respondents and researchers have proposed several strategies:​  Respondents' Suggestions:  Strengthening Existing Programs: Enhance current educational, vocational, spiritual, recreational, and livelihood initiatives to better meet PDLs' needs.​  Refining Innovative Approaches: Implement evidence-based practices, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and trauma-informed care, to address underlying issues contributing to criminal behavior.​  Ensuring Continuous Program Evaluation: Regularly assess program effectiveness through data collection and feedback to make necessary adjustments and improvements.​  Enacting Supportive Policies: Develop policies that promote rehabilitation, such as incentives for program participation and successful completion, to encourage engagement.​  Expanding Facilities: Increase space and resources to accommodate more participants and provide a conducive environment for various activities.