(Stories of Hope, Resiliency and Restoration - English)
In 2018, Ramon’s (not his real name) life took a drastic turn. Four charges were filed against him: illegal possession of firearms, violation of the Omnibus Election Code, malversation of government property, and possession of drug paraphernalia. At the time, he was a Section Chief in one of the country’s law enforcement agencies. However, following these accusations, he lost his position and everything that mattered to him.
The malversation charge was the most severe. It stemmed from an incident in which he transferred to a safe house to protect an asset under his care. He parked an office-issued vehicle in a remote area, but the vehicle, along with the firearms and equipment inside, was stolen. By 2021, the court sentenced him to six years in jail, later reduced to three years under the Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA) law. He served his sentence and was released in 2021.
The other charges followed the malversation case which dragged on for years. By 2023, he was acquitted of the drug paraphernalia charge, and by late 2024, the remaining cases were resolved.
Those years were extremely painful for Ramon. During this period, he also lost his opportunity to serve as an international officer for transnational crime operations. “I thought I had control over my life, but God had other plans,” he reflected.
While in jail, however, Ramon experienced a profound transformation. He encountered members of PRESO Inc., a foundation dedicated to assisting inmates. They provided him with legal support, paid his bail, and offered spiritual guidance. Individuals like Sister Sol, Sister Nita and Sister Tess stood by him, reminding him that he was not alone.
Through this journey, Ramon discovered that the truest meaning of freedom isn’t tied to physical release—it lies in accepting one’s circumstances and choosing to change for the better. He observed that inmates who embraced humility and acceptance achieved an inner liberation that often paved the way for their eventual freedom.
Ramon helped his fellow inmates share their stories. While in jail, he earned their respect by working as a paralegal and a religious coordinator. He also helped them send updates to their families, sharing their side of the truth. Through these experiences, Ramon learned important lessons about acceptance, humility, and the power of forgiveness.
Now, at 61 years old, Ramon is rebuilding his life. He works from home at a call center and focuses on supporting his children. His youngest is still in college, and he shares responsibilities with his former partner to ensure their child completes their education.
“I lost many things, but I gained wisdom and peace,” he said. “What happened to me wasn’t just a punishment; it was God’s way of teaching me to trust Him and become a better person.”
Ramon’s story is one of hope, resilience, and faith. It shows that no matter how far one falls, there is always a way to rise again. True freedom begins with humility, acceptance, and the courage to change.
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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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