Category Archives: Good Stories

Volunteer support flocks to check PDLs situation in Batangas City Jail

In an inspiring display of community solidarity, the recent efforts to check on the status of female persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) in Batangas City Jail have brought both hope and support to women facing difficult circumstances, on October 25, 2024.

HLAF together with dedicated student volunteers from Batangas State University and Batangas National High School went to Batangas City Jail female dormitory to provide, prepare, and cook PDLs warm meals – Adobo for lunch, Macaroni soup for Meryenda, and Fried Chicken for dinner.

Bridging the Gap

The lives of female PDLs often present unique challenges, compounded by societal stigma and the obstacles inherent in their incarceration. However, a team of enthusiastic student volunteers who saw a post from an HLAF staff has taken it upon themselves to bridge the gap between the community and those behind bars.

Jails and prisons often face unique vulnerabilities during typhoons, and inadequate infrastructure and limited access to emergency resources can exacerbate the risks faced by vulnerable PDLs. The safety and well-being of PDLs can be compromised, leading to detrimental health outcomes, heightened stress, and a lack of basic necessities.

However, JSINP Clariza P. Ebora, Warden of Batangas City Jail – female dormitory said that there were no serious damages in the facility, although they had power outage during the typhoon. “All fifty-two (52) persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) are safe and warm, yun nga lang, brownout sa amin for a whole week because of the strong winds and heavy downpour of Kristine.”

A Community Coming Together

Ronze Anthony Bagsit, a student volunteer from Batangas State University told it was his first time visiting a jail, and indeed a very memorable experience. “Masaya po na nakasama at nakatulong ako sa HLAF at Batangas City Jail female dormitory, at pinayagan po tayo kaagad sa ganitong klaseng activity”.

HLAF Strategic Social Behavioral Change Communication and Advocacy Officer Melvin Nunez said that the advocacy activity was a social behavior change campaign engaging students and mobilizing communities toward supporting and promoting the rights, welfare, and well-being of persons deprived of liberty all over the country. “Gusto namin mas mapalawak yung human rights community na tumatalakay sa advocacy namin for PDLs, lalong lalo na para sa mga vulnerable – mga may sakit, matatanda, mga persons with disability, mga bata, at mga dating nakulong”.

My Internship Experience at HLAF

By: Janine Puyat

Introduction

My time at the Humanitarian Legal Assistance Foundation, Inc. (HLAF) has been very rewarding. From the start of my On-the-Job Training (OJT), I felt excited and eager to learn. Working with a team so dedicated to human rights was both inspiring and eye-opening. My experience there has been a great help in preparing me for the challenges I will face in my future career. Each day provided me with new knowledge and skills that I know I will use in my profession. Working on different projects and participating in human rights events gave me a clear view of what it means to work in advocacy. I learned about the challenges and rewards of supporting human rights causes in real-world settings. The opportunity to record and edit Continuing Professional Development (CPD) videos helped me develop technical skills that are highly relevant to my field.

Internship thoughts

From the start, the internship was both challenging and rewarding. Working with experienced professionals like Atty. Romnick C. Erice and Former Undersecretary Lourdes Balanon gave me important insights into how criminal justice and social work connect. Recording and editing CPD videos helped me improve my technical skills and understand the complexities of legal and social issues. This internship was a rich learning experience that enhanced my professional skills and deepened my interest in social justice.

Understanding Human Rights during Internship

During the internship, I gained a much deeper understanding of human rights. Working on CPD videos and attending relevant seminars exposed me to the challenges faced by vulnerable sectors and the importance of advocacy in addressing these issues. Participating in the Stella program, which supports children and families affected by incarceration emphasized the need for caring and compassionate approaches to human rights.

Interns in the Human Rights landscape, Activities done, contributed,
participated

During my time there, I had the chance to engage deeply with various aspects of human rights advocacy. One of my primary responsibilities involved recording and editing Continuing Professional Development (CPD) videos. This task allowed me to hone my technical skills while contributing to the foundation’s educational efforts. Additionally, I participated in several human rights events organized by HLAF. These events provided me with valuable insights into the practical challenges and successes of advocacy work.
I contributed to different programs run by the foundation. This experience showed me how HLAF helps people and supports human rights. Working on these programs gave me a hands-on look at how to manage and run advocacy projects. The teamwork at HLAF taught me a lot about working together and planning effectively.

Most memorable event

The most memorable part of my internship was the “Stella: Small Hands, Big Hearts” program. I felt a mix of excitement and hope as the event started. Seeing families come together brought me so much joy. The smiles and laughter from the children and their mothers were very touching. However, as the program ended, the mood changed. Watching the families say goodbye was very emotional and hard to see. The tears and hugs made me feel sad and empathetic for their situation. Even though it was tough, I realized how important these moments of connection are. The experience left me
feeling fulfilled, knowing that our work made a real difference, even if just for a short time.

Conclusion

My internship at HLAF has been deeply moving. It taught me a lot about human rights and helped me improve my professional skills. What I will cherish most are the feelings it stirred within me. I felt a strong connection and pleasure in doing meaningful work. Each task, whether it was working on projects or engaging with the community, gave me a deep sense of purpose and satisfaction. This experience went beyond just professional growth; it especially touched my heart. I was inspired by the impact we were making and it gave me a clearer sense of my purpose. The emotional rewards were as significant as the skills I gained. This internship was not only fulfilling but also emotionally enriching.

Malaya Na At Tutulong Para Magpalaya Pa

As the sun sets on their internship journey, the Development Communication interns from Batangas State University reflect on their transformative experience at the Humanitarian Legal Assistance Foundation (HLAF). Throughout their internship, these bright and passionate students have honed their communication and advocacy skills and contributed significantly to the foundation’s mission of providing support to marginalized groups, especially to persons deprived of liberty.

From day one, the interns showed and welcomed their dynamic team into HLAF’s environment where they were encouraged to learn, innovate, and apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. As I supervised their engagement in various projects, I saw their pivotal role in enhancing HLAF’s outreach and communication strategies, making a tangible difference in the lives of those they served.

It was memorable for me, and I know for them that one of the highlights of their internship was working on an advocacy campaign focused on bridging the gap between incarcerated mothers and their children through artful and therapeutic coloring and bonding.

Using social media platforms, they crafted engaging posts, eye-catching graphics, and informative videos that effectively conveyed crucial information about HLAF’s advocacies and work.

Their hard work and dedication culminated in different successful campaigns that increased the HLAF’s visibility and encouraged individuals to work toward the promotion of persons deprived of liberty rights. The interns witnessed firsthand how their efforts could empower those in need, instilling a sense of pride and fulfillment in their contributions.

In addition to their advocacy work, the interns were actively involved in organizing workshops and community engagements. The interactions with community members left a lasting impact, as the interns saw the direct effects of their work in raising awareness and nurturing hope.

As they near the completion of their internship, the interns expressed gratitude for the mentorship they received from HLAF. They had the opportunity to learn from experienced development professionals who shared their knowledge and insights, shaping them into more confident and skilled communicators. I know that the guidance provided was instrumental in helping them develop a deeper understanding of humanitarian legal work and the importance of advocacy.

Looking ahead, when we had our celebratory activity, the interns told me that they were excited to take the lessons learned during their time at HLAF into their future careers, although they still had one (1) academic semester left. Armed with a passion for social justice and a commitment to making a difference, they are determined to use their skills to advocate for marginalized voices and continue the work of fostering positive change in society.

As the internship concludes, it’s clear that the impact of the Development Communication interns at the Humanitarian Legal Assistance Foundation goes beyond a mere learning experience. They have become ambassadors of hope and change, bridging the gap between those in need and the legal resources available to them. Their journey is a testament to the power of youth, collaboration, and a shared vision for a more just and equitable world.

In the end, the legacy of the interns lives on through their contributions, and the HLAF community can now look forward to new initiatives and advocacy efforts, all fueled by the passion and commitment of these determined students. Malaya na at patuloy na tutulong para magpalaya pa.

Interns Bring Joy and Hope to Families in Jail Through Coloring Book Activity

In a heartwarming display of compassion and solidarity, HLAF interns have embarked on a mission to spread joy and creativity within the walls of a prison, bringing together mothers who are incarcerated and their children for a meaningful coloring book activity. As colors spilled onto paper and laughter echoed through the halls, a sense of blissful hope enveloped the participants, turning a routine day into a moment of shared connection and joy.

Guided by a spirit of empathy and a desire to make a positive impact, the interns organized the activity as a way to bridge the gap between mothers behind bars and their children on the outside. Armed with bundles of coloring books, crayons, and an abundance of enthusiasm, they entered the prison with open hearts and open minds, ready to create a space where families could come together in a moment of respite from the challenges of incarceration.

For the mothers, the opportunity to engage in a creative activity with their children was a precious gift—a chance to bond, laugh, and create lasting memories amidst the constraints of their environment. As they sat side by side with their little ones, the walls of the prison seemed to fade away, replaced by the warmth of shared joy and the promise of connection.

The children, wide-eyed and eager, delved into the world of colors with abandon, their faces lighting up with each stroke of the crayon. Guided by their mothers’ gentle encouragement and the interns’ unwavering support, they unleashed their creativity, filling the pages of their coloring books with a kaleidoscope of hues and imagination.

As the room filled with the sounds of laughter, storytelling, and shared moments of creativity, a sense of blissful tranquility settled over the group. In that space of shared connection, barriers dissolved, judgments retreated, and the simple act of coloring became a powerful tool for healing, bonding, and hope.

Through the transformative power of art and empathy, the interns, mothers, and children forged bonds that transcended the confines of the prison, weaving a tapestry of joy, resilience, and shared humanity. In the act of coloring together, they found solace, understanding, and the realization that even in the darkest of moments, light and hope can shine through.

As the coloring activity came to a close, hugs were exchanged, smiles were shared, and hearts were filled with a sense of gratitude for the moments of connection that had been created. The interns, inspired by the impact of their initiative, left the prison with a renewed sense of purpose, their hearts brimming with the knowledge that even small acts of kindness and creativity can spark moments of bliss and hope in the most unexpected of places.

In the echoes of laughter and the traces of colored pencils left behind, the interns, mothers, and children carried with them a shared memory—a memory of love, connection, and the transformative power of coming together in moments of joy and creativity, no matter the circumstances.

The Journey of Hope: Child and Guardian Travel Far to See Incarcerated Mother

In the midst of adversity, a beacon of hope shines brightly as a child and her guardian embark on a journey of love and resilience to visit the child’s incarcerated mother. Despite the distance, the challenges, and the hurdles they must overcome, their unwavering bond propels them forward, united in their shared mission of family and connection.

For the child, anticipation mingles with nerves as she prepares for the long journey to see her mother behind bars. The guardian, a pillar of strength and support, stands by her side, offering comfort and reassurance in the face of the unknown. Together, they navigate the complexities of travel, logistics, and emotions, their determination unwavering in the face of adversity.

As the miles stretch out before them, each passing landmark brings them closer to their destination—a reunion filled with love, longing, and shared moments of tenderness amidst steel bars and concrete walls. The child’s eyes sparkle with hope and anticipation, her heart filled with the promise of seeing her mother, if only for a fleeting visit.

Amidst the challenges of the journey, a sense of purpose guides their steps—a belief in the power of family, the resilience of love, and the strength that comes from unity in the face of separation. As they traverse highways, endure long hours of travel, and overcome obstacles along the way, their bond grows stronger, fortified by the shared desire to bring a moment of joy and connection to their incarcerated loved one.

At last, they reach their destination—the cold walls of the prison standing as a stark reminder of the barriers that separate them from the child’s mother. Yet, in that moment of reunion, as they embrace and hold onto each other tightly, the walls seem to fade away, replaced by a bubble of love and closeness that transcends physical boundaries.

As they share stories, laughter, and tears in the confines of the visitation room, the child, her guardian, and her mother create a tapestry of hope, woven from shared moments of connection and unwavering love. In their togetherness, they find solace, strength, and the unshakeable belief that family knows no bounds, transcending distance and circumstance.

The journey of hope, marked by sacrifice, perseverance, and unwavering love, serves as a testament to the enduring power of familial bonds. In the child’s eyes, in the guardian’s steadfast presence, and in the mother’s embrace, there lies a promise—a promise of resilience, of unity, and of the unbreakable ties that bind them together, no matter the challenges they face.

As they prepare to depart, their hearts heavy yet full of the shared moments they have created, the child, her guardian, and her mother carry with them the light of hope—a light that will guide them through the darkness of separation, illuminating the path towards a future where they stand united, whole, and stronger together.

Family Dreams of Complete Portrait Amidst Incarceration

In the jail visitation room or activity area, a family clings to a single cherished dream—a complete family portrait. Locked behind bars, separated by metal barriers and concrete walls, they yearn for a semblance of normalcy, a tangible symbol of their unbreakable bond amidst adversity.

For the incarcerated member of the family, every visitation day is a mix of joy and sorrow. As they eagerly anticipate the arrival of their loved ones, the weight of their absence from everyday moments—family dinners, bedtime stories, and celebrations—hangs heavy in the air. Yet, in the fleeting hours spent together, they find solace in the laughter, tears, and shared memories that transcend the harsh realities of their circumstances.

The children, wide-eyed and innocent, treasure each precious moment with their parents behind bars, capturing snippets of love and togetherness in their tender hearts. They hold on to the hope of a complete family portrait—a mosaic of smiles and embraces that defies the steel bars and stigma of incarceration.

As they pose for makeshift pictures within the sterile confines of the visitation room, the family’s love shines through, enveloping them in a warmth that transcends physical boundaries. In those stolen moments of intimacy, they forge memories that will sustain them through the days of separation and uncertainty.

The dream of a complete family portrait symbolizes more than just a photograph—it embodies resilience, love, and the unwavering belief in the power of familial bonds to transcend adversity. It serves as a beacon of hope amidst the darkness of incarceration, a testament to the enduring spirit of a family united in heart if not in physical presence.

As the shutter clicks on yet another visitation day, freezing smiles and tears in a fleeting moment of togetherness, the family’s dream of a complete portrait endures. It is a reminder that love knows no boundaries, that the bonds of family can withstand even the harshest of circumstances, and that amidst the shadows of jail cells, the light of hope shines brightest.

In the quiet corners of their shared dreams, the family holds onto the promise of a day when they will stand united, whole, and complete in front of a camera, capturing not just an image but a testament to their unyielding love and resilience. Until that day comes, they will continue to hold onto each other, their fragmented but unwavering family portrait a testament to their enduring strength and unwavering bond.

Child Wishes Speedy Trial for Mother in Legal Battle

In a heartfelt plea for justice, a young child is advocating for a swift resolution in her mother’s ongoing legal proceedings. The child, whose identity remains anonymous to protect his privacy, is bravely speaking out about the toll the prolonged trial is taking on her family.

The mother, who has been locked in a legal battle for several months, is facing an uncertain future as the case drags on. The child, despite his tender age, is acutely aware of the stress and anxiety permeating their household as a result of the unresolved situation.

In a poignant statement, the child expressed his desire for a speedy trial, emphasizing the need for closure and the chance to move forward as a family. “I just want my mom’s trial to be over quickly so that we can be happy again, (translated) ” the child said, his innocent words carrying a weight far beyond his years.

The child’s plea has struck a chord with many in the community, prompting calls for expedited legal proceedings and heightened support for families navigating complex legal challenges. Child advocates have underscored the importance of prioritizing the well-being of children in legal disputes, emphasizing the profound impact such experiences can have on their emotional and mental health.

As the child’s wish for a speedy trial echoes through the corridors of justice, it serves as a poignant reminder of the human faces behind every legal case. It underscores the urgency of expediting legal processes to minimize the trauma and uncertainty experienced by families caught in the throes of legal battles.

Ultimately, the child’s heartfelt plea serves as a powerful call to action for a more compassionate and efficient legal system—one that prioritizes the best interests of children and seeks timely resolutions for families in need.

As the community rallies around this poignant appeal, there is hope that the wheels of justice will turn swiftly, granting the child and his family the closure and stability they so desperately seek.

HLAF Assessment Tool Receives Good Reviews from Duty-Bearers

In the ongoing mission to support Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) and enhance their rehabilitation process, the Humanitarian Legal Assistance Foundation (HLAF) has been making significant strides. Following the FMC training attended by Malabon duty-bearers last February, HLAF’s FRED program took a crucial step by conducting an interview with Malabon City Jail’s Male and Female Dorms. This initiative aimed to evaluate the latest version of their assessment tool and ensure its effectiveness in the reintegration journey.

The interview process was comprehensive and revealing. It was designed to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the assessment tool, providing invaluable insights into its administration, effectiveness, and the receptivity of the PDLs. The assessment tool, a cornerstone in evaluating the needs and progress of PDLs, needed to be both robust and adaptable to serve its purpose effectively.

During the interview, the team, along with the duty bearers discovered several strengths of the current tool. It was praised for its thoroughness and the structured manner in which it gathered essential information about the PDLs. The PDLs themselves expressed appreciation for the tool, noting that it helped them reflect on their personal growth and reintegration progress.

Recognizing these challenges, the HLAF team, along with the duty-bearers, engaged in a collaborative effort to refine the tool. They classified specific areas for improvement and brainstormed diverse approaches to enhance its administration. This collaborative spirit underscored the commitment of all parties involved to make the reintegration process as effective and supportive as possible.

The collaboration also explored ways to enhance the receptivity of the PDLs. This involved making the tool more engaging and less intimidating, perhaps by incorporating interactive elements or providing additional support to PDLs as they complete the assessments. By making the assessment tool more effective, the hope was to encourage more honest and reflective responses, thereby improving the quality of the data collected.

The HLAF’s FRED program, in partnership with Malabon duty-bearers, demonstrated that through careful evaluation and collaborative refinement, tools and processes could be significantly enhanced. This initiative not only aimed to improve the assessment tool but also served as a reminder of the importance of continually seeking feedback and being open to change.

In the end, the collective efforts of the HLAF team, duty-bearers, and the PDLs themselves have paved the way for a more effective and compassionate reintegration process. This ongoing journey of improvement ensures that each step taken is a step closer to a future where every PDL has the support and opportunities they need to rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society successfully..

The Pag-asa sa Pagbabagong Buhay weekly webinar has started, which will help with the GCTA (Good Conduct Time Allowance) for the Person Deprived of Liberty.

The journey towards change for Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) has taken a promising turn with the launch of a series of webinars aimed at supporting their transition back into society. These webinars, designed to assist with the Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA) for PDLs, have become a beacon of hope and learning for many.

Recently, Prof. Bryan Engay delivered an insightful talk during one of these webinars, focusing on the essential steps towards successful reintegration. His discussion emphasized the importance of mental and emotional health for former PDLs, highlighting it as a crucial foundation for rebuilding their lives. Prof. Engay’s expertise shed light on various strategies and practices that can help individuals manage stress, cope with past traumas, and develop a positive mindset.

One of the most impactful moments of the webinar was the testimony of a Person Restored of Liberty (PRL), a beneficiary of the FREDelitos (FRED) program. She shared her powerful personal story, recounting the challenges she faced and the valuable lessons she learned throughout her journey. Her narrative resonated deeply with the PDL participants, serving as a vivid illustration of the transformative power of maintaining a positive outlook and dedication to self-improvement.

The PRL’s heartfelt testimony highlighted her struggles and triumphs, painting a picture of resilience and hope. She spoke about the importance of support systems, the role of education and skills training in her reintegration, and the profound impact of believing in oneself. Her story was not just a testament to her own strength but also a beacon of hope for others who are on the same path.

Together, Prof. Engay’s guidance and the PRL’s testimony provided the participants with a balanced mix of practical advice and emotional encouragement. Prof. Engay’s insights offered concrete steps and strategies for managing the reintegration process, while the PRL’s story served as a powerful reminder of what is possible with determination and support.

These webinars have underscored the significance of a supportive community in the reintegration process. They have shown that, despite the challenges, there is potential for a hopeful future. The combined contributions of experts and those who have successfully navigated the journey back to society highlight the importance of holistic support—addressing both the emotional and practical needs of PDLs.

As these webinars continue, it will be a promising cornerstone in the ongoing efforts to support PDLs. By fostering an environment of learning, sharing, and mutual encouragement, they are paving the way for a future where every former PDL can thrive and contribute positively to society. The initiative marks a significant step forward in the collective endeavor to build a more inclusive and compassionate community, one where everyone has the opportunity for a second chance.

Empowering Catanduanes: HLAF’s LCPC Functionality Module Training for Child Protection

The Humanitarian Legal Assistance Foundation, Inc. empower the local communities and promote the rights of Children across Catanduanes Province. HLAF has undertaken a significant initiative aimed at enhancing the functionality of the Local Council for the Protection of Children (LCPC). This comprehensive training program seeks to equip local duty bearers and community members from the Municipalities of Pandan, Bagamanoc, Viga, and Panganiban with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively fulfill their roles and responsibilities within the LCPC framework.

HLAF’s functionality module training is designed to address a diverse range of topics pertinent to child protection and community welfare. Participants are immersed in discussions and practical exercises aimed at deepening their understanding of child sensitivity, pertinent child protection laws and policies, child development principles, and the importance of conducting situational analyses of children within both national and local contexts. the training explores various mechanisms for protecting children, highlighting the critical role of engaging different stakeholders involved in child protection efforts.

The LCPC functionality module training represents a crucial step toward fostering community empowerment and collaboration in the pursuit of child protection. As HLAF continues to champion the rights and welfare of children across Catanduanes, initiatives like these serve as a testament to the organization’s unwavering commitment to creating safer and more nurturing environments for children to thrive and flourish.

As HLAF continues to champion the rights and welfare of children across Catanduanes, initiatives like these serve as a testament to the HLAF unwavering commitment to creating safer and more nurturing environments for children to thrive and flourish. The dedication of HLAF to support and empower duty bearers ensures that the future of child protection in Catanduanes is robust and sustainable.

Through the concerted efforts of HLAF and the active participation of local community members, the dream of a secure and supportive environment for every child in Catanduanes is becoming a reality. This initiative not only enhances the functionality of the LCPC but also instills a sense of shared responsibility and collaboration among all stakeholders involved in protecting the rights and well-being of children.