(Stories of Hope, Resiliency and Restoration - English)
Real-life stories are sometimes even more unbelievable than movies. This is the story of Dante, now 59 years old. One night during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, a man—a sibling of a coworker and a neighbor living near his rented room—came knocking at Dante’s door while he was watching a movie on his phone. Although bewildered by the unexpected visit, Dante did not hesitate to welcome the man inside.
Dante lived alone in a rented space after relocating to Manila from Bicol to work as an installer for GRM Biowood, specializing in house interior designs.
Suddenly, Dante found himself under attack. The man, wielding a knife, accused him of being the carrier of the COVID-19 virus in the country. Fearing for his life, Dante defended himself. During the struggle, he managed to grab the knife and, in an unconscious reaction, stabbed the man in the forehead.
It was only later that Dante learned the man had died from the wound. Despite acting in self-defense, Dante was charged with homicide.
Dante endured 18 months of incarceration in a city jail and felt hopeless at the beginning of the legal process. Life in jail was especially challenging during the pandemic, as visitors were not allowed. He lost contact with his family and relatives, except for one cousin who remained his connection to the outside world. Phones were not allowed in jail, and inmates had to pay for calls through the jail’s cooperative. As a result, Dante couldn’t contact his wife and children. Even after being bailed out and gaining temporary freedom, he discovered that his wife had left their home, and he was unable to reconnect with her.
To pass the time in jail, Dante joined activities and attended Mass celebrations. He heard stories from other inmates about people claiming to help but disappearing after charging fees. Scammers often preyed on the desperation of inmates, he recounted. When he heard about PRESO Inc. offering to help him, Dante initially dismissed it as another scam. However, with nothing to lose and his mother—the only person still fighting for him—losing hope, he allowed himself to trust them. It turned out to be a turning point in his life. Dante realized how fortunate he was and understood that God had been with him even in his darkest hours.
PRESO Inc. facilitated his early release and covered his bail. Dante expressed his profound gratitude to PRESO Inc., wishing them continued strength to carry on their noble work.
Dante lost his job at GRM Biowood, which had provided him with a stable income and benefits. Despite this, he did not let the experience embitter him. Instead, he viewed it as a divine intervention that strengthened his faith and character. During his time in jail, he learned to adapt to the diverse personalities of his fellow inmates and follow the strict rules. One important lesson he took from the jail authorities was: If it’s not yours, don’t steal it, possess it, or use it.
Now on temporary release, Dante diligently follows all court rules and attends every hearing to demonstrate his commitment to the legal processes and PRESO Inc. He prays for the truth to prevail, emphasizing that he is a good man with no prior criminal record.
Dante has returned to Bicol, where he works in construction and travels to Manila for his court hearings. He eagerly anticipates the graduation of his youngest child, who is studying BS Agriculture.
Dante vows to continue being a good citizen and a devoted father, proving that his past involvement in a crime will not define him.
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If you would like to support the PRESO Foundation in providing financial assistance to deserving PDLs, please reach out to the Foundation at 0906-822-1625. Alternatively, you may contact Ms. Nita Silva Mangaser or Sol Baltazar through their Facebook page or Messenger.
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