I'm sharing the story of Josefina, whose release from jail was expedited due to humanitarian reasons. She fell ill while incarcerated. Through the assistance of PRESO Inc., an organization that supports first-time, low-risk, and financially challenged Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs), she benefited from a program designed to aid individuals in her situation.
Josefina, not her real name, was released from jail on November 9, 2023, six months after her admission in May 2023, thanks to the assistance of PRESO Inc., who worked for her early release. Unfortunately, she now faces another challenge: she has lost the ability to walk due to bone tuberculosis, which became evident during her time in jail. Despite this setback, with her newfound freedom, she is determined to rebuild her life. PRESO Inc. is reaching out to compassionate donors who can contribute medications, and other essentials to enhance her mobility. Before her incarceration, Josefina earned a living as a manicurist. She is also a devoted grandmother, caring lovingly for her six grandchildren. She faced accusations related to an illegal numbers game, potentially leading to an 8-10 year jail sentence. To reduce her sentence, she confessed to the charges, making her eligible for probation. Although she qualifies for probation, it could still take up to two more years. Therefore, PRESO Inc. helped her secure an early release due to her declining health. Her immediate release will enable her to rebuild her life and health sooner. During PRESO Inc.'s evaluation of her case, a neighbor from Balintawak, where Josefina used to reside, vouched for her, describing her as a good and helpful person. They argued that the accusation of her involvement in an illegal numbers game doesn't make sense because everyone in the neighborhood is so poor that they struggle to afford proper meals, let alone gamble. Josefina's story is just one instance among many PDLs facing extreme and punitive imprisonment. Her case underscores the need for government and policymakers to consider alternative methods of detention, especially for low-risk, first-time offenders like Josefina, as well as those currently dealing with an illness. Many innocent people end up in jail. They admit to crimes they didn't commit because court delays make it difficult to prove their innocence. This is where PRESO Inc. steps in to help free those who deserve it. PRESO Inc.’s recommendations for reforms Our current system, one that is extremely punitive, has created several issues, one of which is the need for more funding from the government. Throughout the legal process, the government shoulders the basic needs of PDLs. Considering that the legal process in this country is too slow due to various reasons, this can adversely strain government resources. What’s worse, it will also impact their families. For instance, if parents or bread winners are jailed for a long time, their children are left without support and guidance. They become susceptible to committing crimes to make ends meet, creating a truly vicious cycle. Another connected issue is that prolonged incarceration may lead PDLs to further engage in criminal activities once freed as they often meet hardened criminals in jail, raising the risk of recidivism. To address these issues, PRESO Inc. highly recommends the institution of alternative forms to detention, particularly for first time and low risk offenders who do not pose a threat to the community. Coupled with stringent monitoring, these alternative interventions may include community service, house arrest, mental health and substance abuse treatment programs, and viable and meaningful initiatives that focus on addressing the underlying causes of criminal behavior. When we emphasize rehabilitation and reintegration over punitive measures, we can help reduce the tendencies of PDLs to relapse into criminal behavior and foster a more just and effective criminal justice system.
Josefina is in need of medications, and laboratory services, and PRESO Inc. is actively seeking a donor to support these essentials. Your assistance will significantly ease the financial strain on her family. If you are willing to contribute to Josefina's path to full recovery and the start of a new life, please don't hesitate to reach out to PRESO Inc. at www.presocbb.org and https://www.facebook.com/PresoInc?mibextid=ZbWKwLPRES
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