JOURNEY FROM IMPRISONMENT TO REFORMATION OF PERSONS DEPRIVED OF LIBERTY: A MULTI-CASE STUDY

Authors

  • Kirstie Amor V. Cruda Master of Science in Criminal Justice, Professional Schools, University of Mindanao, Davao City, Philippines
  • Nestor C. Nabe Assistant Dean, PhD, College of Criminal Justice Education, University of Mindanao, Davao City, Philippines

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46827/ejsss.v11i2.1982

Keywords:

persons deprived of liberty, reformation, coping mechanisms, rehabilitation, personal transformation

Abstract

This multi-case study investigated the lived experiences of transformation of the seven PDLs assigned at the Davao Prison and Penal Farm. Frequent, in-depth interviews chronicled participants' distinctive paths and formative experiences as they sought personal transformation while in prison. Four main themes were found through the analysis: lived experiences, personal difficulties, ways of coping, and significant insight. Participants described not being able to drink their worries away, of feeling sad, and that they could not move as they wished. In reaction, they utilized a variety of coping strategies, including coming to terms with their circumstances, praying, participating in leisure activities, abiding by the inner rules of the prison, engaging in rehabilitation activities, and enhancing their spiritual life. Over time, they came to important realizations: learning to accept their reality, using their time more purposefully, obeying the law, avoiding conflict, and showing respect to those around them. These realizations became instrumental in their ongoing reformation. The study underscored how deeply personal and multifaceted the rehabilitation process is within correctional environments. It called attention to the need for supportive, reform-focused settings that foster emotional strength, discipline, and moral growth. Ultimately, the findings offered meaningful insights into how incarceration can become a turning point for positive change—and how prison systems can better support that transformation.

 

SDG Indicator: 16 (Justice, Peace, and Strong Institutions)

 

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Author Biographies

  • Kirstie Amor V. Cruda, Master of Science in Criminal Justice, Professional Schools, University of Mindanao, Davao City, Philippines

    Kirstie Amor V. Cruda, MSCJ is a faculty member of the College of Criminal Justice Education, University of Mindanao in Davao City, Philippines. She is a licensed criminologist who successfully passed the Criminology Licensure Examination in year 2011. She currently serves as Associate Professor I at a university, where she shares her expertise in the field of criminal justice. She is also a graduating student in the Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice program. In 2018, she underwent specialized training in Forensic Legal Medicine at the Professional Academy of the Philippines in Cebu City, and in Forensic Ballistics at the Philippine Criminalistics Society, Inc. in Baguio City. Her academic and professional background reflects a strong commitment to advancing knowledge and practice in the fields of criminology and forensic science.

  • Nestor C. Nabe, Assistant Dean, PhD, College of Criminal Justice Education, University of Mindanao, Davao City, Philippines

    Nestor C. Nabe, PhD, CSP, CST is an Assistant Dean of the College of Criminal Justice Education as well as the Program Coordinator of the Master of Science in Criminal Justice and Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice; both at the University of Mindanao in Davao City, Philippines. Dr. Nabe has successfully earned the following academic degrees; Doctor of Science in Criminology-Philippine College of Criminology, Master of Science in Criminology-Cagayan de Oro College, and Bachelor of Science in Criminology-University of Baguio. A reservist in the Philippine Army, he currently serves as theS1-2202nd RBde, S4-6th TAS, AFPRESCOM with the rank of Major. As a dedicated professional, Dr. Nabe is an active member of the following professional organizations: Philippine Criminalistics Society, Inc. Philippine Association for Teachers and Educators, Philippine Society of Criminologists and Criminal Justice Professionals, Inc. Philippine Society for Industrial Security. Inc. Philippine Educators Association for Criminology Education, Professional Criminologists Association of the Philippines, and Reserve Officers Legion of the Philippines. As an academic, he has authored several books, namely, Law Enforcement Professional Conduct and Ethical Standards, Laboratory Manual in Polygraphy and Laboratory Manual in Police Photography.

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Published

2025-07-09

Issue

Vol. 11 No. 2 (2025)

Section

Articles