Title

LIVED EXPERIENCES OF FORMER INCARCERATED INDIVIDUALS: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY

Author(s)

ALIGO, GADFFREY B.

BOLITO, MARIEL L

GALLETO, ANGEL MHAE B

PAEZ, EJ LAURENCE

Affiliation

MISAMIS UNIVERSITY

Degree Program

Bachelor of Science In Criminology

Contributor

GUPIT, ELMA FE E. - ADVISER

CANAPE, BERNAFLOR B. - PANEL MEMBER

DANIEL, EDMAR R. - PANEL MEMBER

CUEVAS, JOSE JR. F. - CHAIRMAN

ORONG, MARKDY Y. - INSTRUCTOR

Year

2026

Abstract

Incarceration in the Philippines includes both convicted individuals and many pre-trial detainees still undergoing legal processes.This study explored the lived experiences of formerly incarcerated individuals in Misamis Occidental, focusing on their reintegration into society and the challenges they face in rebuilding their lives. Using a qualitative phenomenological design, five purposively selected participants with dismissed cases shared personal narratives through semi-structured interviews. Data analysis followed Moustakas’ six-step phenomenological reduction. Findings revealed that participants experienced a mix of social acceptance and stigma, faced challenges such as family and community disapproval, limited educational and employment opportunities, and coped through faith, family support, self-determination, and adaptive strategies. These were presented in eight themes: navigating social acceptance and stigma; experiencing personal transformation and renewal; experiencing family and community disapproval; struggling with limited economic and educational opportunities; drawing strength from faith and family; demonstrating self-determination and adaptive coping; family as the cornerstone of reintegration; and institutional and community support as pathways to stability. Reintegration is a complex process influenced by personal resilience, social networks, and systemic barriers, and recommends person-centered interventions, supportive policies, and structured reentry programs. The study recommends person-centered interventions, supportive policies, structured reentry programs, and community-based initiatives to facilitate successful reintegration.

Keywords

coping strategies, formerly incarcerated individuals, phenomenology, reintegration, social support.