The Effectiveness of Livelihood Program among Former Person Deprived of Liberty in

Dumaguete City

Abejero, Christian Jay B.

Adapon, Abeguel M.

Albino, Lady Dawn A.

Elopre, April Rose V.

Emon, Marjori P.

Gajilomo, Micah Niña C.

Mansueto, Kiza A.

Colegio de Santa Catalina de Alejandria

CA3: Therapeutic Modalities

Ms. Mits Karen Stone Miguel

February 20, 2025

ABSTRACT

The reintegration of Former Persons Deprived of Liberty (FPDLs) into society remains a

significant challenge, often hindered by stigma, lack of employment opportunities, and social

reintegration barriers. This study examines the effectiveness of livelihood programs in

Dumaguete City in enhancing the skills, economic stability, and social well-being of FPDLs.

Using a descriptive qualitative research method, data were collected through semi-structured

interviews with three FPDLs who participated in vocational training programs while

incarcerated.

The findings indicate that livelihood programs significantly improve skill acquisition,

particularly in vocational fields such as carpentry and electrical work. Participants reported

increased economic independence, with some being able to financially support their families.

Furthermore, the programs had a positive social and psychological impact, enhancing self-

esteem, fostering teamwork, and strengthening social relationships. However, challenges such as

resource limitations, difficulty adapting to structured training, and societal stigma were identified

as barriers to successful reintegration.

Despite its positive outcomes, this study is limited by its small sample size, which

restricts generalizability. Future research should explore long-term employment outcomes of

FPDLs post-training and examine how integrating mental health support with vocational

programs can enhance rehabilitation success. Overall, the study highlights the crucial role of

livelihood programs in reducing recidivism and promoting social reintegration, underscoring the

need for continued policy support and program development.

INTRODUCTION

The rehabilitation and reintegration of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) is a pressing

issue in the Philippines, where over 200,000 individuals are held in various correctional

facilities. The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) was created to address issues in

jail management and criminology. The Philippine Corrections System, which consists of

government-run facilities, community volunteers, and private businesses, is in charge of

incarcerating, punishing, and rehabilitating convicted individuals (Sarenas et al., 2024).

Under R.A. 6975, the BJMP holds operational and administrative responsibility over all

municipal, district, and city jails. As part of its mandate, the BJMP envisions itself as a dynamic

institution dedicated to the humane safekeeping and development of inmates (Section 2, BJMP

Manual 2015). The Philippine Department of Justice defines the Therapeutic Community as an

environment that promotes mutual assistance among inmates, and the BJMP published a policy

in 2010 about the implementation of the Therapeutic Community and Modality Program

(TCMP), which is a model for the PDLs Welfare and Development Program (Sarenas et al.,

2024).

There are different therapeutic modalities offered by different jails and prisons,

educational programs, skills training/enhancement programs, livelihood programs, behavior

management programs, interfaith programs, and Cultural and Sports Programs. These programs

help in the rehabilitation of inmates, helping them learn new skills, earn money, and improve

their social and emotional well-being, which will help them reintegrate back into the community.

The Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) aims to assist impoverished, vulnerable, and

marginalized communities by offering interventions that improve their socio-economic

circumstances. This initiative emphasizes the enhancement of essential assets—human, social,

financial, natural, and physical—that are crucial for developing and sustaining livelihoods.

Specifically, the SLP seeks to strengthen human assets through technical and vocational training

as well as life skills development, reinforce social connections by promoting involvement in

community organizations, increase financial resources by offering seed funding and facilitating

access to credit and savings, safeguard and enhance natural resources that support community

livelihoods, and provide physical resources that optimize livelihood activities.

In Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, local authorities and various NGOs have made

noteworthy efforts to support former PDLs as they reintegrate into society. The city offers

livelihood programs aimed at equipping these individuals with necessary skills, facilitating

employment, or enabling them to launch their own businesses. Such initiatives not only allow

former PDLs to meaningfully contribute to their communities but also help mitigate the

likelihood of re-offending by addressing financial instability and lack of job prospects.

This research study aims to identify the effectiveness of livelihood program by

interviewing former Person Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) on certain aspects such as skills and

knowledge acquisition, economic impact, social and psychological impact, challenges and

barriers the PDLs have faced during the program, and evaluating the program effectiveness and

suggestions from PDLs to improve the efficacy of the program.

PROBLEM STATEMENT AND RESEARCH QUESTIONS

Individuals formerly incarcerated, known as Former Person Deprived of Liberty (FPDL),

encounter a variety of obstacle when trying to reintegrate into society. These challenges often

include difficulties in finding stable employment and limited social support network. Programs

designed to promote livelihoods, particularly vocational training, seek to provide individuals

with practical skills that can improve their economic stability and facilitate their social

integration. Nevertheless, there is insufficient research assessing how effective these programs

are in enhancing the socio-economic, social, and psychological well-being of FPDL.

This study intends to investigate the effects of livelihood programs on participants in

terms of skill development, economic support, self-esteem, and their overall reintegration after

incarceration. Specifically, it answers the following questions.

1. How does participation in livelihood programs impact the skills and knowledge of

Former Person Deprived of Liberty (FPDL)?

2. To what extent has the livelihood program affected enhanced the economic

independence of FPDL participants?

3. How has the livelihood program affected the social and psychological well-being of

the participants, particularly in terms of self-esteem and relationships with others?

4. What challenges or barriers do participants face during their participation in

livelihood programs, and how do these affect the programs overall effectiveness?

5. What improvements can be made to livelihood programs to increase their

effectiveness in preparing FPDL for successful reintegration into society?

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This research is important because it explores the effectiveness of livelihood programs in

supporting the successful reintegration of former persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) into society.

After serving time, many PDLs face challenges such as stigma, limited skills, and lack of

employment opportunities, making it difficult for them to build a stable, law-abiding life.

The results of this research are vital for informing policymakers, social workers, and

correctional institutions, providing evidence to design more effective rehabilitation and

reintegration programs. Additionally, it can raise awareness about the importance of second

chances, advocating for a more supportive and inclusive approach to criminal justice reform.

Ultimately, this research contributes to fostering a more just and compassionate society.

The result of this study will benefit the following entities:

Former PDLs. They will gain valuable skills and support, helping them reintegrate into

society, find stable employment, and rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.

Students. The research offers valuable learning opportunities for students studying

related fields, enhancing their understanding of social justice issues and providing real world

data for their projects

The Public. The knowledge that was generated through this research could have helped

the general public to have a better understanding of the Effectiveness of livelihood program for

former person deprived of liberty (FPDLs).

The Researcher. The current researcher would have benefited from the study's findings.

They could have gained a deeper insight into the results, expanding their knowledge, talents, and
skills which would have helped them to have a greater grasp of this field, like conducting

research on a particular phenomenon.

Future Researchers. Future researchers would have substantially benefited from the

findings of this study since they could have used them as a model for conducting related studies

in the future.
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Research Design

The study used the descriptive qualitative research method because it focused on

understanding the relationship between participation in vocational programs and various

outcomes such as skill acquisition, employability, and reintegration into society of the former

PDLs. Manuel and Medel (1998) explain that the descriptive method encompasses the

description, documentation, analysis, and interpretation of the current characteristics,

composition, or processes of phenomena. This method emphasizes the existing conditions and

examines how an individual, group, or entity operates at the time of the research. Sanchez

(1980), notes that the descriptive method extends beyond simply collecting and organizing data;

it incorporates interpretation to convey the meaning or importance of what is being described.

Consequently, description is frequently paired with comparison and contrast, which includes

measurement, classification, interpretation, and evaluation.

Participant and data methods

The study used a semi-structured interview guide in gathering data from the Three (3)

Former Persons Deprived of Liberty, who were purposely selected based on these criteria: (1)

those Former Persons Deprived of Liberty who were incarcerated for one year and above, (2)

have experienced livelihood program inside the prison (3) those who permit to be interviewed

only. To guarantee the accuracy and consistency of the questions in the semi-structured interview

guide.
Data analysis

The data was analyze using thematic analysis, a method suited for qualitative research.

This study followed the six-phase framework established by Braun and Clarke (2006), which

includes becoming familiar with the data, generating initial codes, identifying themes, reviewing

those themes, defining them, and composing the final report. To uphold the ethical standards of

the study, all information was gathered with informed consent, and interviews were carried out

without any pressure. All data collected from participants were handled with the highest level of

confidentiality.
RESULTS

Characteristics:
Participants
Age Place of Origin

FPDL 1 34 Camanjac, Dumaguete City

FPDL 2 37 Daro, Dumaguete City

FPDL 3 36 Banilad, Dumaguete City

Key Themes Skills and Knowledge Participants 1,2 and 3

Acquisition responded:

“My knowledge about

electrical has improved."

" I was able to enhance my

skill because of the training."

"... managing time efficiently

to meet project deadline”

Key Themes Economic Impact Participant 1 and 2

responded:

“I was able to send money

even if it's a small amount for
my family…”

“The skills and knowledge I

gained from the program have
enable me to advance in my
 career, taking on more
complex projects and
increasing my earning
potential to support my
family.”

Key Themes Social and Psychological Participants 1,2, and 3

Impact responded:

"I was able to gain friends

because of the programs and
also some staffs."

" Acquiring new skills,

mastering carpentry skills has
boosted confidence and self-
worth “

“Carpentry program has

impacted my relationship
with others like camaraderie
and teamwork,working
together on projects has
fostered a sense of
camaraderie and teamwork
among fellow inmates.”

Key Themes Challenges and Barriers Participants 1,2 and 3

responded:

“...frustration with my own

mistakes and limitations when
learning new skills.”

“...my experiences made [me]

realize all the bad decisions
 I've made, the program made
my skills developed and
learned new skills.”

“I felt change within me and I

was able to help my family
and I found new friends.”

Key Themes Program Effectiveness and Participants 1,2, and 3

Suggestion responded:
“Yes, because they can have
an income and also they can
send money to their families.”

“Yes, so that they can earn

some money and still be able
to support your family even if
you're inside.”

“I would like to recommend

the computer aided design
(CAD) program to others in
incarceration why because the
CAD program teaches
industry relevant skills,
making participants more
employable upon release.”

Key Themes Engagement Participants 1 and 2

responded:
“The program really helped
me a lot inside, this thought
me a lot of things. And I
would really like for the
inmates inside to experience it
as well because it will help
them”
 “What I can share is that they
should participate in the
programs because in case they
can get out, they could learn
something and be able to
make money for their
family.”

DISCUSSION

This study examined the effectiveness of livelihood programs for Former Persons

Deprived of Liberty (FPDLs) in Dumaguete City, focusing on skills acquisition, economic

impact, social and psychological well-being, challenges faced, and program effectiveness. The

findings revealed that participants gained valuable vocational skills, improved their financial

stability, and experienced enhanced self-esteem and social relationships. However, some

challenges, such as resource limitations and personal struggles, hindered their full engagement in

the programs.

The findings align with previous research emphasizing the positive impact of livelihood

programs on reintegration (Haney, 2003; Estillore & Aoas, 2020). Participants reported skill

development in fields such as carpentry and electrical work, which boosted their employability.

This supports Black’s (2018) claim that the relevance of skills training to market demands plays

a crucial role in securing stable jobs post-incarceration. Furthermore, the economic benefits were

evident as some participants were able to financially support their families, reinforcing findings
by Visher et al. (2005) on the role of vocational training in reducing unemployment among

former inmates.

The social and psychological impact was also significant. Participants noted increased

self-confidence and a sense of camaraderie with others, consistent with research by Uggen et al.

(2003) and Maruna (2001), which highlighted that structured employment fosters self-worth and

social acceptance. However, some participants faced emotional struggles in adapting to new

skills, indicating a need for enhanced psychological support during training.

The study underscores the necessity of livelihood programs as a critical component of

rehabilitation. By equipping former PDLs with job-ready skills, these programs contribute to

crime prevention and community safety. Furthermore, the financial independence gained through

employment opportunities can break the cycle of recidivism, as supported by the U.S. National

Institute of Justice (2019), which found a 43% reduction in re-offending among those engaged in

work-based rehabilitation programs.

These findings are relevant for policymakers, social workers, and prison authorities in

refining rehabilitation strategies. Ensuring that skills training aligns with labor market demands

and providing additional mental health support can enhance program effectiveness.

Despite its success, the livelihood program faced several challenges. Participants reported

frustration with learning new skills and adjusting to structured training. Additionally, resource

constraints, such as limited training materials and funding, hindered program implementation,

similar to the issues identified by Williams (2019) in correctional facility-based programs.

Another major obstacle was the stigma attached to former incarceration, which made securing

employment more difficult, echoing the concerns raised by Dawson (2021).

 To address these challenges, future research should explore the long-term employment

outcomes of FPDLs post-training. Further studies could also examine how psychological

interventions alongside vocational training enhance rehabilitation success.

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Livelihood programs focus on creating economic opportunities, offering skills training,

and enhancing job prospects for individuals, especially those in vulnerable or disadvantage

circumstances. For persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), these initiatives play a vital role in their

rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society after serving their time. These programs

aim to equip PDLs with skills that can lower the chances of re-offending by boosting their ability

to find stable employment or launch own businesses upon release.

Programs aimed at enhancing the livelihoods of person detained or formerly detained

often focus on teaching practical and vocational skills essential for a successful return to society.

Livelihood initiatives frequently offer vocational training frequently in areas like carpentry,

welding, or agriculture, which enhances the job prospects for former inmates. A study conducted

by Haney (2003) indicates that such vocational training can play a crucial role in equipping ex-

prisoners with the skills needed to find employment, thereby decreasing the chances of

recidivism.
 The success of skill development largely depends on the quality of the training provided

and how well the skills match the needs of the local job market (B. H. Black 2018). When skills

are in demand within the wider community, it enhances the chances of released PDLs securing

stable employment.

One of the primary goals of livelihood program is to enhance the economic conditions of

persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) by providing them with skills that can help them secure jobs

or start their own businesses. Through the livelihood programs provided by the BJMP, the

participants were able to obtain better employment opportunities, apply the skills they had

learned in the program, which improved their financial situation, and support their family by

meeting their needs. Additionally, the livelihood programs helped them develop the skills

necessary to become more productive individuals, which helped them help themselves and their

family (Estillore & Aoas, 2020).

The advantages of livelihood programs on social and psychological levels cannot be

overstated. Such initiatives frequently give PDLs a sense of purpose, dignity, and hope, all of

which are vital for reintegration. A study conducted Haney (2003) highlights that skills training

program can enhance self-esteem by fostering a sense of achievement, which helps to mitigate

feeling of worthlessness often experienced during incarceration.

Despite the potential benefits of livelihood programs for persons deprived of liberty

(PDLs), various challenges and barriers exist that hinder their effectiveness. One key challenge is

resource constraints. According to T. R. Williams (2019), many correctional facilities face

significant funding limitations, resulting in inadequate resources such as training materials,

facilities, and staff to effectively implement livelihood programs.

 Another obstacle is stigma and discrimination. H. R. Dawson (2021) observed that even

when PDLs acquire new skills; their criminal record often results in employers being reluctant to

hire them, limiting the potential success of the programs. Finally, personal challenges such as

lack of family support, mental health issues, and addiction often prevent PDLs from fully

benefiting from livelihood programs (Williams, 2019)

REVIEW OF RELATED STUDIES

Studies suggest that livelihood programs significantly improve the economic stability of

former PDLs. According to Visher et al. (2005), individuals who receive vocational training and

employment assistance while incarcerated have a higher likelihood of securing stable jobs upon

release. Similarly, a study by Western et al. (2018) emphasizes that job training programs reduce

unemployment rates among ex-offenders, thereby lowering their reliance on illicit activities.

In the Philippine context, Ronda (2020) examined the Bureau of Jail Management and

Penology’s (BJMP) livelihood programs and found that skills training in handicrafts, farming,

and small-scale entrepreneurship improved post-release employment rates.

Livelihood programs contribute to lower recidivism rates. The U.S. National Institute of

Justice (2019) reported that former inmates who participated in work-based rehabilitation

programs were 43% less likely to re-offend. Giguere and Dundes (2002) found that ex-offenders

who gained financial independence through employment were more likely to stay out of prison.
 In the Philippines, a study by Cruz (2019) assessed the impact of DSWD’s Sustainable

Livelihood Program on former inmates and noted that access to capital and mentorship reduced

the tendency to engage in criminal behavior post-release.

The stigma associated with incarceration often hinders social reintegration. Uggen et al.

(2003) found that economic stability provided by livelihood programs improves self-worth and

community acceptance. Former PDLs who engage in productive activities gain positive social

recognition, fostering a sense of belonging.

In a study conducted in Cebu City, Philippines, Garcia (2021) explored community

perceptions of ex-offenders involved in livelihood initiatives. Results showed that 76% of

community members had a more favorable view of rehabilitated individuals engaged in work.

Livelihood programs also enhance the mental and emotional well-being of former PDLs.

Maruna (2001) emphasized that having a stable income contributes to reduced stress, better

decision-making, and lower substance abuse rates. Additionally, studies by Petersilia (2003)

indicate that structured employment opportunities provide a sense of purpose and routine, critical

for post-incarceration adjustment.

CONCLUSION

This study investigated the effectiveness of livelihood programs for Former Persons

Deprived of Liberty (FPDLs) in Dumaguete City, focusing on their impact on skills acquisition,

economic stability, social and psychological well-being, and the challenges encountered during

reintegration. The findings highlight that participation in livelihood programs significantly

enhanced the vocational skills of FPDLs, improved their ability to secure financial support, and

fostered a sense of confidence and social belonging. These results align with previous studies

emphasizing the role of vocational training in reducing recidivism and increasing economic

independence.

In response to the research questions, the study found that livelihood programs positively

influenced the skills and knowledge of FPDLs, equipping them with practical abilities such as

carpentry, electrical work, and time management. Economically, the program enabled some

participants to support their families financially and increased their career advancement

opportunities. Additionally, the social and psychological impact was evident, as participants

developed friendships, improved their self-esteem, and experienced a sense of teamwork and

purpose. However, challenges such as learning difficulties, resource constraints, and societal

stigma limited the full benefits of these programs.

Despite these positive outcomes, the study had some limitations. The small sample size

of only three participants limits the generalizability of the findings to a larger population.

Additionally, the research relied on qualitative interviews, which, while rich in detail, may not

fully capture the long-term effects of livelihood programs. Further, the study did not assess the
actual employment rates of FPDLs post-training, which would provide a clearer measure of the

program's effectiveness in real-world reintegration.

For future research, longitudinal studies should be conducted to track the long-term

employment and social outcomes of FPDLs after they participate in livelihood programs.

Additionally, future studies could explore how mental health interventions alongside skills

training can improve rehabilitation outcomes. Policymakers and program designers should

consider expanding training opportunities, addressing stigma through public awareness

campaigns, and providing financial support for entrepreneurial ventures to further enhance the

success of these initiatives.