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Reflection

Being an intern at the Humanitarian Legal Assistance Foundation (HLAF) has got to be one of the most exciting and most fulfilling experiences I have ever had in my life. With my one-month stay in the organization, I got to participate in jail visits and case consultations and go to courts for case follow-ups. I even had the opportunity to attend Kumustahan 2018 and meet and take pictures with distinguished guests. However, for me, the most memorable (and my favorite) part of the internship has to be the jail visits.

Through these visits and the succeeding case consultations, I have the opportunity to hear the other side of the story. The media may portray them in the harshest light, but their perspective on what happened reminded me that they too, are just ordinary people who had ordinary lives, dreams, jobs and aspirations before their arrest. Despite their bad reputation, they deserve and are entitled to the same type of justice bestowed to everybody else. Their crimes do not negate their right for a fair and just trial and certainly not their right to be treated decently.

Through the case consultations, I have witnessed first-hand just how inefficient and slow the country’s justice system is. In the countless interviews we have conducted, the recurring problems seems to have something to do with the system itself. It is either that these PDLs have no schedule set for their next meeting and/or hearings always get rescheduled due to absences from either the judge/prosecutor/lawyer/complainant.

As we all know, the Philippine judiciary is not only terribly understaffed but also overworked. However, prior to HLAF, I did not understand just how understaffed and how overworked they were. In one of our jail visits, it was mentioned that a PAO lawyer handles about 500 cases daily. With that many cases, a lawyer cannot possibly attend to them all, let alone properly defend their client. On the other hand, judges are also scarce. As I have mentioned above, most of the prisoners’ hearings are suspended and rescheduled at a later date as the judge/ lawyer/ prosecutor attends a seminar/convention/etc. Furthermore, their job rotations also affect the process. A number of PDLs have cited that their cases have not been given attention since their old judge and/or PAO lawyer has been assigned to another branch. This further slows down the process as the new judges and lawyers have to orient themselves on the cases they are now handling.

A problem also exists in the rehabilitation treatment. Some PDLs have waited for months just to go the rehab centers; however, they are unable to do so since these centers are already full. Another problem also exists in information dissemination. Take for example, the new guidelines regarding the plea bargaining for cases under RA 9165. According to the PDLs, some judges and lawyers do not even know that plea bargaining is already available. Moreover, some court branches are selective in granting their plea bargaining. For example, court branch A accepts the plea bargain of the accused charged for violating section 14 of RA 9165. However, the PDL’s co-accused whose case is assigned in court branch B was denied of the plea bargain despite having the same case. As a result, PDL A is already free while PDL B remains in jail.

However, despite the slow and inefficient process, HLAF tirelessly does its best in their job. As I have mentioned in one journal entry, HLAF has three programs- Jail Decongestion (JD) program, Focused Reintegration of Ex-Detainees (FRED) program and lastly, the Center for Restorative Action (CRA) program. In the JD Program, HLAF is exerting its very best to release as many PDLs they can and free up jail space. On the other hand, HLAF’s FRED program assists soon-to-be-released PDLs by equipping them with values and life skills that can help them in their lives upon and after release. Moreover, the CRA program is an avenue to uphold the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act (JJWA) and is mostly concerned with cases involving Children in Conflict with the Law (CCL). With this, HLAF has conducted countless forums, symposiums, and trainings in various barangays and communities.  

As one can see, these are all time-consuming programs. Being their intern, I can certainly say HLAF’s jobs are no joke. However, I understand why the organization still tirelessly continues their advocacy. Through these programs, HLAF is able to reach out and make a difference in the lives of these people. Their smiles and their messages of thanks are more than enough. Hence, I am absolutely thankful for HLAF for accepting me to be one of their interns. It was such a surreal and wholesome experience. The JD team as well as my fellow interns have certainly taught me a lot regarding the country’s justice system. Because of them, I was able to go to courts and experience case follow-ups. I got to interact with government employees who answered all of my queries. I got to see the reality of the country’s jail situation and learn a lot regarding the law and judiciary process. I was able to talk with numerous PDLs and hear tons of stories. Most of all, I was given the opportunity and the avenue to give back and serve the people.

Thank you so much for the wonderful experience HLAF! Kudos to all the people that created, supported and still supporting this organization! 😊

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Week 6: Curtain Call

Monday (July 16, 2018)

           Our second to the last day was spent in Manila City Jail- Male Dormitory for a scheduled case consultation. Unlike previous jail visits, the case consultations were only done in the jail’s paralegal office. PDLs whose cases need attention were called from the jail. The JD team was composed of ADMU Law interns, Mr. Ville Magbuhos and our newest addition to the group, Ms. Bianca; DLSU Law interns, Ms. Christianne de Vera and Mr. Francis Bautista; UA&P Law intern, Mrs. Jermae Elnar; and of course, Val and I. We were supervised and accompanied by Kuya Itoy. We were assisted by the jail’s paralegal officer, blah blah blah.

           In the middle of the case consultation, I could not help but feel a bit sad at the thought of our last day tomorrow. This will be the last time I would visit a jail and conduct a case consultation. This would be the last day I spent with my co-interns whom I already consider as my friends. Despite missing Cebu, I could not help but feel reluctant going home. There were still so many things that I wanted to do while in HLAF. Moreover, I will surely miss my fellow interns and the rest of the JD team, especially spending time with them in the activities lined up.

           But what can I say, our time is done.

Tuesday (July 17, 2018)

           This was it. Our wholesome and fruitful summer was already at a close. Honestly, I was a bit sad that we had to go. Undeniably, this had to be my best and most fulfilling summer yet. I was having so much fun that I did not notice the weeks flying by. Everyday was a new adventure, a new chance to learn from the HLAF staff, my fellow interns and the PDLs and jail officers. Yet, all good things will always have to come to a close. The show will sadly have to end.

           I cannot even begin to express how thankful I am to HLAF for accepting me as one of their interns for the summer. I have learned so much and gained so much experience from my 200-hours internship. I have visited jails and talked with what society would consider “scary people” and listened to their own accounts on what happened. I have walked through courts and taken numerous pictures of the places we have visited. Most importantly, I have met and worked with a lot of amazing and unforgettable people who each have left their own impact in my life.

Working in the organization has really put some things in perspective. For example, HLAF has further strengthened my interest and desire in working with NGOs and/or applying for the PAO once I become a lawyer. Since I have witnessed and experienced first-hand just how flawed the criminal justice system is, I think it is only right that I will do my part in improving it. These options seem like the best way to achieve it.

While I am sad that we had to go, I know that this will only be temporary. I definitely would want to work with HLAF again. In fact, Valerie and I have already made plans to volunteer if ever we have the spare time. Who knows, we might even apply for another internship sometime in the future.

But for now, goodbye HLAF! This internship will always hold a special place in my heart and for that, I thank you.

           This has been Jia Villarin, incoming fourth-year student of BA Political Science and former HLAF JD intern signing off from her internship filled with nothing but good memories and insights.

           Till next time!

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Friday (July 13, 2018) 2nd Quarter Kumustahan Meeting Venue: BJMP NCR Office and BJMP National HQ 

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Thursday (July 12, 2018) Malabon City Jail 4th Meeting for PLAides Training  

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Monday (July 9, 2018) QC Jail- Male Dormitory FRED Junior Phase 

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Week #5: The Beginning of the End

Monday (July 9, 2018)

           The work week opened with a jail visit to Quezon City Jail- Male Dormitory. Here, my UDM friends, Miggy, Nikki and Jessa, were to conduct their first session of FRED seminars in the said jail under the supervision of Ms. Carmelita Torrefiel, Center for Restorative Action’s (CRA) Community Organizer. While this may be one of the projects of HLAF’s FRED program, some members of the JD team were invited to give a discussion. The JD team was composed of DLSU Law intern, Ms. Christianne de Vera; ADMU Law intern, Ms. Alexa Dabao; and yours truly.

           As I have mentioned in one of my previous journal entries, HLAF’s FRED program assists soon-to-be-released PDLs by equipping them with values and life skills that can help them in their lives upon and after release. What my friends are doing now in QC Jail- Male Dorm is what the FRED program calls as the junior phase. Here, they will help these PDLs reconcile with themselves and as what Miggy said, “heal what is broken inside”. To do this, a values formation seminar will be held every Monday at 10:00 AM. When these PDLs are finally released, the FRED program then launches the senior phase wherein they are taught how to re-integrate back into society. Again, a seminar will be held every Monday at 10:00 AM.

Aside from that, the FRED program also gives out a cash grant of P500 to help them in their new life. All the PDL has to do is to attend every seminar which is held for 10 Mondays. Once the sessions are over, HLAF then gives the money to the PDL.  

           The team arrived onsite at approximately 9:30 AM. However, the seminar was only able to start at 10:15 AM as preparations were still done. JD Law interns, ate Jermae and ate Alexa discussed the Rights of the Accused and Modes of Release respectively. Ate Cha was supposed to discuss on Good Conduct and Time Allowance (GCTA); however, was unable to do so due to time constraints. I, on the other hand, was given the task of writing the minutes of the program and to give assistance to whoever may need it.

           While the JD’s case consultations and PLT seminars were fun and interesting, the FRED program was another thing entirely. Through the case consultations, we had the opportunity to talk with the PDLs and help them with their legal problems; however, the FRED program gave us the chance to fully know these people and interact with them. The UDM interns were lucky as after the first meeting, they were to divide the PDLs among themselves and conduct the sessions. This meant spending more time with them. Since it was their first meeting, Miggy facilitated a getting-to-know-you (GTKY) activity with the PDLs. It was quite fun and enjoyable as the PDLs and interns alike took turns in introducing themselves and presenting their talent to the group.  

           Honestly, it was a heartwarming sight. I can tell that the PDLs were enjoying the seminar a lot judging by their laughs and the huge smiles on their faces. As I have written in a prior journal entry, many of us forget that these PDLs are people. They too had their own lives, families, jobs, dreams and aspirations in life. However, many of us forget that fact and just reduce them to the crime/s they have committed. HLAF is really remarkable since they do not only help these PDLs in gaining back their freedom, but they also help them prepare for their release as well as reintegrate back to society. They know that being arrested and going to jail takes a huge toll on a person and through the FRED program, they help these PDLs slowly gain back their identities. Moreover, the FRED program also tries its best to prevent these PDLs from returning to jail via the values seminar and advices they give.

           HLAF truly is very admirable in their efforts! Kudos to HLAF!

Tuesday and Wednesday (July 10, 2018 and July 11, 2018)

           Seeing as our internship was almost over, our Tuesday and Wednesday were once again, days we dedicated to finishing our remaining assigned tasks. The usual letters and activity reports were made and documents were kept. Aside from those, seeing as the 2nd quarter Kumustahan is almost near, Kuya Melvin and Kuya Itoy have given us tasks regarding those. Documents were retyped, certificates were edited and printed, tarps were designed, etc.

           Aside for these stuff, both were pretty much quiet days.

Thursday (July 12, 2018)

           Thursday was our 2nd jail visit to Malabon City Jail. Again, in light of the Paralegal Aides (PLAides) training, the JD interns were to hold a PLT seminar for the jail’s fourth scheduled meeting. The seminar started at 10:05 AM with a prayer led by one of the male PDLs and then followed after by a short introduction from Mr. Alfredo Alaras. The flow of the program for the day was: 1) Modes of Release; 2) Plea Bargaining; 3) Good Conduct and Time Allowance (GCTA). The first topic was done by ADMU Law interns, ate Alexa Dabao and ate Hazel Tolentino. UA&P Law intern, ate Jermae Elnar then followed with the discussion on Plea Bargaining. However, due to time constraints, only these two topics were discussed. The GCTA discussion was moved to the next PLT session.

           The Plea Bargaining discussion of Ate Jermae was the one the PDLs were looking forward to the most. Due to the recent availability of plea bargaining to RA 9165 cases, the PDLs wanted to know if it was applicable in their cases. It was quite a funny sight as the PDLs have all gathered to the front and one can really tell that all eyes and ears were on the PPT and Ate Jermae as she began her talk. In my previous journal entry, I have only mentioned that the plea bargaining is available to Section 5 (Sale, Trading, Administration, Dispensation, Delivery, Distribution and Transportation of Dangerous Drugs and/or Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemicals), Section 11 (Possession of Dangerous Drugs) and Section 12 (Possession of Equipment, Instrument, Apparatus and Other Paraphernalia). However, the DOJ has recently released a new set of guidelines for the plea bargaining last June 26, 2018. Under these guidelines, plea bargaining can be applied to sections 5,7, 11,12,13, 14 and 91.

           For Section 5 (Sale, Trading, Administration, Dispensation, Delivery, Distribution and Transportation of Dangerous Drugs and/or Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemicals), plea bargaining is allowed if the drug sold is less than 5 grams for shabu and less than 300 grams for marijuana. Any amount beyond those quantities will disqualify the PDL from availing the plea bargain. With the plea bargaining, the case will be converted to Section 11 (Possession of Dangerous Drugs) which is penalized by a minimum of 12 years and 1 day to a maximum of 20 years. Fines will be reduced from P500K-P10M to P300K-P400K.

           For violators of Section 7 (Employees or Visitors of Den, Dive or Resort), plea bargaining is only allowed if the accused is charged as the visitor of a drug den. After that, the case can either be converted to Section 12 (Possession of Equipment, Instrument, Apparatus and Other Paraphernalia) which has a penalty of 6 months and 1 day to 4 years and has a fine of P10K-P50K or to Section 15 (Use of Dangerous Drugs) which has a penalty of 6 months treatment and rehabilitation for the first offense and 6 months and 1 day to 12 years for the succeeding offenses. It also has a fine ranging from P50K-P200K to repeat offenders.

           Plea bargaining for Section 11 (Possession of Dangerous Drugs) is only available if the drug possessed is less than 5 grams for shabu, opium, morphine, heroin, and cocaine and less than 300 grams for marijuana. Case will then be converted to Section 12 which has a penalty of 6 months and 1 day to 4 years and a fine around P10K-P50K.

           Section 12 (Possession of Equipment, Instrument, Apparatus and Other Paraphernalia) will be converted to a Section 15 under the plea bargaining. For the 1st offense, the penalty will only be 6 moths treatment and rehabilitation. For the succeeding offenses, penalty will be from 6 months and 1 day to 4 years and has a fine from P50K-P200K.

           In the old journal entry, violators for Section 13 (Possession of Dangerous Drugs During Parties, Social Gatherings or Meetings) cannot avail of the plea bargaining. However, under the new guidelines, they can if the drug possessed weighed less than 5 grams for shabu, opium, morphine, heroin, cocaine and less than 300 grams for marijuana. It will then be converted to a Section 11 and has a penalty of 12 years and 1 day to 20 years and has a fine from P300K-P400K.

           Section 14 (Possession of Equipment, Instrument, Apparatus and Other Paraphernalia During Parties, Social Gatherings or Meetings) can be converted to Section 15 under the new guidelines. For the 1st offense, penalty is only 6 months in rehabilitation while succeeding offenses has a penalty of 6 years and 1 day to 12 years and a fine ranging from P50K-P200K.

           For Section 91, par.1 (Responsibility & Liability of Law Enforcement Agencies and other Government Officials and Employees in Testifying as Prosecution Witness in Dangerous Drugs Cases), plea bargaining will convert it to Section 91, par 2. Penalty ranges from 2 months and 1 day to 6 years. A fine ranging from P10K-P50K is required.

Sure enough after the discussion, questions were asked left and right. Luckily enough, Ate Jermae and the rest of us were able to answer all of their queries. The relief in their eyes after hearing the new guidelines are forever etched in my memory. Others could not help but smile at the thought of being able to gain back their freedom.

While the work HLAF does is certainly tiring but I think I understand why the organization still keeps on doing it. Helping these people and seeing the smiles on their faces just makes everything worth it. The “salamat pos” they give, and while I do not deserve them, absolutely warms my heart. More importantly, I feel happy that I was able to play even just a small part in their path to gaining back their freedom. Again, thank you HLAF.

Friday (July 13, 2018)

On Friday, we (Valerie, Kuya Ville and I) were tasked to accompany Kuya Itoy, Kuya Melvin, Kuya Fred and Atty. Aubree with their meetings in BJMP NCR and BJMP National HQ. These meetings concern the upcoming 2nd Quarter Kumustahan that is scheduled on July 18, 2018.  

The first meeting was with CINSP Marizens Sese whom we have earlier met when we first started our internship. Coincidentally, our first meeting with her also concerns the Kumustahan. The meeting lasted from 8:00 AM- 10:00 AM. In this meeting, Kuya Itoy, Kuya Melvin and Atty. Aubree have already settled the issues regarding the upcoming event.

           After lunch, Kuya Itoy had to separate from the group since he had cases to follow-up at the Caloocan Courts. Similarly, Kuya Fred also had to break away since he had a prior engagement. Thus, only the five of us remained. We travelled all the way to BJMP NHQ and met with JSUPT Edwin Badilla Riel, DSC who was current Director of the Directorate for Inmates Welfare and Development. Like the first meeting, Kuya Melvin and Atty. Aubree also settled and discussed the necessary information with JSUPT Riel regarding the upcoming Kumustahan.

           After the meetings, the group parted ways and went home. Honestly, I feel kind of sad that Val and I will not be able to attend the 2nd Kumustahan seeing as we were already present in the first one. However, our internship ends at Tuesday while the Kumustahan happens on Wednesday. Well, there is always a next time.

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July 5, 2018 (Thursday) Cavite Provincial Jail: Plea Bargaining Talk  

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July 4, 2018 (Wednesday) Quezon City RTC: case follow-ups HLAF Office: Site Orientation 

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Quezon City Female Dormitory Jail Visit (Monday, July 2, 2018) 

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Week #4

Monday (July 2, 2018)

           On Monday, the JD team went to Quezon City Jail’s Female Dormitory for their scheduled Jail Visit. The team was composed of Atty. Aubree Sadural, Mr. Alfredo Alaras, Mr. Melvin Caymo; DLSU Law interns, Ms. Christianne de Vera and Mr. Francis Bautista; ADMU Law interns, Mr. Ville Magbuhos and Ms. Hazel Tolentino; UA&P Law intern, Mrs. Jermae Vania Elnar and of course, Val and I.

           The team arrived onsite at approximately 9:15 AM and met with QC FeD’s Chief Paralegal Officer, SJ04 Rodolfo Nuezca Jr. The case consultations did not start immediately as we were given a short orientation by SJ04 Nuezca. After all was said and done, the team immediately got to work and set up the table. Meanwhile, Kuya Fred was telling the PDLs of the agenda for today. Seeing as there were a number of us for the case consultations, Kuya Fred decided to categorize us to make the process easier and faster. DLSU Law interns, Kuya Francis and Ate Cha were to interview PDLs whose cases were already for promulgation. Kuya Ville and Ate Jermae, on the other hand, were to handle cases that only needed to know the next schedule of their hearing. Ate Hazel, Valerie and I were to handle the rest. After that, at around 9:45 AM- 10:00 AM, the case consultations started.

           Despite the categories, I was surprised that a lot of PDLs have approached us. In all of the case consultations I have attended, the usual concerns are mostly about the next hearing schedules and/or the status of their promulgations. Hence, I was kind of curious to hear the concerns of the PDLs that approached us. The common theme to their problems lies in the application of the plea bargain to their cases. Because of case consultations and other jail visits, I have come to understand that plea bargaining is now available to cases under Sections 5,11,12,13,14, and 15 under RA 9165. This has apparently become the justice system’s attempt to hasten the process of trials and decongest courts. With the plea bargaining, the crime is reduced to a lesser charge and thus, the sentence the PDL serves also decreases.

However, there is still some difficulty in the application. Seeing as the plea bargain to drug cases was only available recently, there were still some courts and judges that were not informed. Moreover, the Supreme Court has yet to release the implementing rules and regulations of the plea bargaining. With this, it was not a surprise that most of the PDLs were confused. According to them, some of their fellow PDLs who had the same charge were granted plea bargains and were already free while they still remain in jail. Luckily, Atty. Aubree and Kuya Melvin were by my side and explained some legal queries that I was unable to answer.

The team was able to finish the case consultations at around 11:30 AM and has interviewed more or less 50 PDLs. Out of the 50, about 15-20 PDLs have approached the three of us with their concerns. After that, Kuya Fred then had a quick meeting with QC FeD’s 25 Paralegal Aides (PLAides) who were also current PDLs in the jail. Throughout the activity, the team was assisted by SJ04 Nuezca and J02 Pilande.  

Tuesday (July 3, 2018)  

           Tuesday was once again, a day dedicated to finishing our assigned tasks given by Atty. Aubree and Kuya Melvin. Tables and graphs were made as well as letters and activity reports. Aside from those, Kuya Melvin also instructed us to make attendance sheets and certificates for the 2nd Quarter Kumustahan happening this July 18, 2018. Unfortunately, this is an event Val and I cannot attend seeing as July 17 is the last day of our internship. However, I do hope Atty. Aubree will still allow us to attend or maybe we could not work on July 17 and instead work on July 18?

           Aside for these stuff, it was pretty much a quiet day.

Wednesday (July 4, 2018)

           Remember the case consultations we did last Monday? Well, Kuya Fred allowed us and the rest of the JD interns to follow them up last Wednesday at Quezon City RTC. Aside from the awesome prospect of following up on more or less 50 cases, this was also the first time the JD interns were all present. I admit I was excited to see all of us working together. Unlike other trips, we were to meet at QC’s Justice Hall at 9:00 AM. Valerie and I left our place at around 7:30 AM and boarded the MRT going to Araneta-Cubao Station. From there, we rode on a bus.

           When we arrived, we saw Kuya Fred with ADMU Law interns, Kuya Ville, Ate Alexa and Ate Hazel. A little while after, Kuya Francis, Ate Cha and Ate Jermae arrived. Before we did the follow-ups, Kuya Fred oriented us a little bit on how the process goes. Seeing as we were going to follow up around 50 cases, he wanted us to do it systematically and quickly. He had us separate the cases by branch number. I was to follow up cases on courts 100, 101, 103, 105, 217 and 227. When the orientation was done, Kuya Fred left us since he had to go to another court. The JD interns then split up and did their assigned tasks.

           Before doing the follow-up, we need to first know the case number. Sometimes, (if you are that unlucky), the staff will not even entertain you if you do not have the number on hand. Since the staff office is occupied by shelves full to the brim with case folders, having the case number hastens the process of finding it. With that, you can finish your job faster. After obtaining the case numbers, Val and I went with Kuya Ville to the 4th floor of the Hall of Justice since our courts were just near each other. The only Court I went to was Court 227 since most of my assigned courts were found in another floor. After that, Val and I went to the 2nd floor to follow up on our other cases. Here, I got to go to Courts 100, 101, 103, 105 and 217. I also went down to the basement since one of my assigned cases needed me to follow-up on the probation officer.

Seeing as this was my second case follow-up, I was a bit nervous. I admit I was already steeling myself for raised eyebrows and disapproving tones. Luckily all the people and staff that I have talked to were very kind and accommodating. They were quick to answer my queries and questions. Because of that, I was able to follow-up on my cases with ease.

The team finished at exactly 12:00 PM. Before leaving us, Kuya Fred told us to go back to the office for another orientation. Usually, after case follow-ups, these were supposed to be inputted in HLAF’s official website. Seeing as only Ate Alexa knew how to do that, all of us had to go back to the office for the orientation. After lunch, we went back to the office and Ate Alexa showed us how to do it. We were doing that until closing time (4:00 PM).

Thursday (July 5, 2018)

           Thursday saw us on a long trip to Cavite. As per the provincial jail’s request, HLAF was supposed to hold a seminar regarding plea bargaining. Once again, all of the JD interns were to be present and were to be accompanied by Kuya Melvin and Kuya Itoy. The talk was to be held from 10:00 AM-12:00 AM. Seeing as they lived near, Kuya Ville and Ate Hazel decided to just meet us at the jail. The rest of us, Ate Cha, Ate Jermae, Ate Alexa, Kuya Melvin, Kuya Itoy, Val and I, carpooled in Kuya Francis’ car. Everybody met at the office at around 8:00 AM and were on our way to Cavite by 8:15 AM.

           It was a long car ride from Ortigas to Cavite; however, the idea of travelling made me excited. It was my first time to be away from the city and moreover, I got to travel with friends. We arrived at Cavite Provincial Jail at 10:20 AM. Unlike the other jails in the city, Cavite Provincial Jail looked like a mini barangay. There was a sports and entertainment center and in the middle was a place for meetings/gatherings. The buildings that housed the cells were also big and spacious and convenience stores occupied the remaining small spaces.

           Once we got inside, the PDLs helped the team set up for the talk. Ate Alexa and Ate Jermae were the ones assigned to do the talk. Around 10:30 AM, Kuya Itoy started the program. A PDL led the prayer and afterwards, each mayor of the dormitory introduced the jail’s PLAides (Paralegal Aides). Kuya Itoy also introduced the team. Then, the talk started. Just like PLT seminars, a Q&A portion followed. The PDLs were very inquisitive and had a lot of questions. Kuya Itoy and the other Law interns were able to answer all of their queries.

           Like the questions in QC Female Dorm, the PDLs in Cavite also asked if the plea bargaining is applicable in their cases. As I have mentioned, I have gained a bit of knowledge about the recent plea bargain to cases in RA 9165. However, the talk has allowed me to learn more. Plea bargaining allows the PDL to confess to a lesser offense and thus, serve a shorter sentence. For example, violators of section 11 (possession of dangerous drugs), will be able to have a lighter sentence as long as the drug possessed did not weigh more than 4.99g for shabu, opium, morphine, heroin and cocaine ad 299.99g for marijuana. With plea bargaining, the case will be converted from section 11 to section 12 (possession of equipment, instrument, apparatus and other paraphernalia) which is only penalized by a minimum of 6 months, 1 day to a maximum of 4 years in jail. Possession of drugs that weigh more than mentioned will have no plea bargaining.

           On the other hand, violators of section 5 (sale, trading, administration, dispensation, delivery, distribution and transportation of dangerous drugs and/or controlled precursors and essential chemicals) were only able to avail the plea bargaining if they sold not more than 0.99g for shabu and 9.99g of marijuana. Any amount that weigh more than these quantities will not be allowed to avail the plea bargain.

           The activity was finished exactly at 12:00 PM. The staff and officials at Cavite Provincial Jail were kind enough to treat us to lunch.

Friday (July 6, 2018)

Friday was another quiet day for Val and I to finish our assigned tasks. I am proud to say that I have finally finished making the tables and graphs for the jail data from the year 2011-2017. Val also was able to finish her task.

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Malabon City Jail- PLT Seminar (Friday, June 29, 2018)

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Pasig City Jail Visit and Pasig Courts Follow-Up (Thursday, June 28, 2018)

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Report (Wednesday, June 27, 2018)

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JD Meeting (Tuesday, June 26, 2018)

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Week #3

Monday (June 25, 2018)

           From now on, I think our Mondays will mostly be spent in the office. Like last week, Val and I used the day to finish our assigned tasks. Letters and activity reports were written, tables and graphs were created. Despite the work, I am kind of thankful to open the work week in the office. As much as I like visiting jails and interviewing PDLs, office days provide a much needed breather from the business of last week. The both of us stayed there until closing time (4:00 PM).

Tuesday (June 26, 2018)  

           Tuesday saw us in a meeting with the JD team. The meeting was held in the room of HLAF’s founder and was attended by Atty. Rommel Abitira, HLAF’s Executive Officer, Atty. Aubree Sadural, HLAF’s Program Officer, Mr. Juanito Vinluan Jr., Mr. Melvin Caymo, and Mr. Alfred Alaras. JD interns were also present- Val and I, DLSU Law intern, Mr. Francis Bautista; ADMU Law interns, Ms. Alexa Dabao, Ms. Hazel Tolentino, Mr. Ville Magbuhos and the newest addition, UA&P Law intern, Ms. Jermae delos Santos. The meeting covered three topics of interest: TFKK evaluation, Calendar of Activities and Division of Tasks.

           Despite being a meeting, it also provided an avenue for us to get to know our fellow JD interns more. Val and I are already friendly with Ate Cha, Kuya Francis and Kuya Ville since the five of us have already went on jail visits and PLT seminars together. All that’s left is to befriend Ate Alexa, Ate Hazel and Ate Jermae.

After the meeting, the interns were told to prepare for a presentation tomorrow for the UDM interns. Valerie and I were assigned to report on VAWC and Anti- Child Pornography respectively. We were kind of worried; however, Kuya Ville and Ate Hazel were kind enough to let us take a picture of their notes. Moreover, they were also willing to answer all of our questions.

Wednesday (June 27, 2018)

           Wednesday was once again spent in the office. Since the report was still at 10:00 AM, we decided to do our assigned tasks. When 10:00 AM came, I felt a little bit nervous. Despite reading the law and studying Ate Hazel’s notes, I still felt a little queasy to the thought of reporting in front of the UDM interns. Ate Cha was first and reported on RA 9344, Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act (JJWA). Kuya Ville was next with a report on RA 7610, Child Abuse. He also reported Ate Hazel’s topic, PD 603, Child and Youth Welfare Code of the Philippines, since she had a class. Next was Ate Alexa with her report on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. After that, there was a short break for lunch.

The afternoon session started with Valerie’s report on RA 9262, Violence against Women and Children. I then followed with my report on RA 9775, Anti-Child Pornography. Ate Jermae reported on RA 10627, Anti-Bullying Act. Ate Alexa then ended the session with a discussion of Kuya Francis’ report on the Mental Health Act.

The reporting session ended at around 3:30-3:45 PM. Because of that, Atty. Aubree let us go home since it was already close to closing time.

Thursday (June 28, 2018)

           Thursday found us in Pasig City Jail for HLAF’s scheduled jail visit and in Tangghalang Pasigueno for case follow-ups. The JD team was composed of Mr. Alfredo Alaras, Atty. Aubree Sadural, DLSU Law Interns, Ms. Christianne Noelle de Vera and Mr. Francis Bautista and of course, Valerie and I. Unlike the previous jail visits, the team decided to just meet onsite on or before 10:00 AM. At approximately 8:00 AM, Val and I left our place and boarded the MRT en route to HLAF’s office in Medical Plaza, Ortigas. We were going to ride with Atty. Aubree going there. However, we got lost along the way and arrived onsite at 10:20 AM.

           When we arrived, we found both the male and female PDLs already in the room. A table was set up where Ate Cha and Kuya Francis were already starting with the case consultations with the Female PDLs of the Female Dormitory. The three of us immediately set up and got to work. I admit I was excited since it was my first time interviewing female PDLs.

           Honestly, jail visits have come to be my most favorite part of the internship. I may not the most qualified person to answer their questions and queries, but I do enjoy conversing with the PDLs. Even if we have only met each other for the first time, I can really feel that they trust me already. There is no hesitation nor apprehension in their eyes when they share their stories with me. They talk of the families and loved ones they miss, the people they want to come home to. Moreover, they talk about the duration of their stay in jail and their desire to get out. I may not know if they are speaking the truth or not, but I sincerely hope that they can be granted release.

           The case consultations ended exactly at 12:00 PM. As mentioned above, we were to visit Tangghalang Pasigueno afterwards for case follow-ups. Overall, the five of us (Ate Cha, Kuya Francis, Atty. Aubree, Valerie and I) have interviewed about 80-90 PDLs. Exactly 63 cases out of the total number of cases are all under Branch 154 which deals with mostly drug cases (section 5 and section 11). There was also a fair number of cases under Branches 155 and 151 while a few were scattered in courts such as Branch 166, Branch 68, and Branch 261. Cases under Branch 154 were temporarily set aside as a letter is required before it can be followed-up. Cases under Branches 155 and 151 were assigned to Ate Cha and Kuya Francis for follow-up while the remaining cases were divided between Kuya Fred and Atty. Aubree.

Thus, after a quick lunch, we were once again at Tanghalang Pasigueno (Pasig City Regional Trial Courts). Upon arriving, Kuya Francis and Ate Cha got to work and left the group. Atty. Aubree let us obtain the case numbers via Pasig City Hall of Justice’s Inquiry System and then decided to let us follow-up the cases whose numbers we have found. This left us with two cases- one in Branch 166 and one in Branch 261. However, only the case in Branch 166 was successfully followed-up since Branch 261 was a family court and thus, needed an authorization letter before we can gather the necessary information. I cannot fully divulge the information regarding the case in Branch 166, but I can say that the PDL is already a step closer to freedom.

Experiencing this made me appreciate NGOs even more. They support the government in areas that need more attention as well as increase awareness on the country’s pressing problems. HLAF’s existence is definitely a sign that the country’s justice system is more problematic than it may seem. While the government has tried to remedy this dilemma, HLAF provides (and is constantly providing) other solutions through its JD, FRED and CRA programs.

Friday (June 29, 2018)

Malabon City Jail- Male and Female Dormitory was our destination on Friday. The JD team was comprised of Atty. Aubree Sadural, Mr. Alfredo Alaras, ADMU Law interns, Ms. Alexa Dabao and Ate Hazel Tolentino, and Val and I. HLAF was there for its 3rd meeting for the Paralegal Training (PLT) seminar on 10:00 AM- 12:00 PM. Sadly, the seminar was unable to start immediately since there was also a mass scheduled at 10:00 AM. The mass ended at 11:28 AM while the program started at 11:30 PM. This left the team 30 minutes to spare for the orientation. Due to that, only one topic was discussed which was Criminal Procedure and was reported by Ate Hazel Tolentino, ADMU Law Intern.

Just like other PLT seminars, a Q&A portion then followed. Once again, the PDLs were enthusiastic in asking their questions. Ate Hazel Tolentino, Atty. Sadural and Kuya Fred were all able to answer their queries.

PLT Seminars are one of the ways HLAF stocks up on paralegal officers. Because of this, there are also Paralegal PDLs who can offer consultations and advices to fellow PDLs inside the jail. Malabon City Jail already had a low supply on POs since the previous ones are already released, hence, the need for a PLT seminar. Once again, HLAF really amazes me with their ingenuity, their determination and enthusiasm. Jail decongestion is a quite a difficult problem to deal with; however, HLAF has never let this hinder them from achieving this goal. Instead, they took it as a challenge. Despite it not being their duty or whatsoever, HLAF has put their best effort in improving the country’s justice system without even an ounce of support from the government.

Kudos to HLAF and kudos to all NGOs out there!

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