Unveiling Gendered Patterns in Drug Cases: Insights from the Provincial Rehabilitation and Reformatory Center (PRRC) in Davao Oriental, Philippines

Abstract

Drug-related cases continue to pose a serious challenge in the Philippines, with gender playing a significant role in how people become involved in and recover from such offenses. Although there's a significant body of research on drug crimes, few studies have taken a closer look at how these issues affect individuals differently based on gender, especially within correctional facilities. This study explores the gendered experiences of Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at the Provincial Rehabilitation and Reformatory Center (PRRC) in Mati, Davao Oriental. Guided by feminist criminology and intersectionality theories, the research focused on three key areas: factors contributing to drugrelated offenses, gendered patterns in drug cases, and policies and programs for effective rehabilitation. The study combined qualitative phenomenological and descriptive-exploratory methods. Data were gathered through focus group discussions with six men, women, and LGBTQIA+ PDLs and key informant interviews with four jail personnel. The findings reveal three factors contributing to drug-related offenses: accessibility, solo flight, and rolling in the deep. Gendered patterns in drug cases include shared decision-making and gendered motivation. For the policy recommendations, three strategic themes surfaced: livelihood programs and job opportunities, stricter enforcement of anti-drug abuse laws, and community-based support. The present study amplifies the voices of marginalized PDLs and advocates for integrated, humane, and gender-sensitive reforms in correctional institutions in the Philippines. Addressing gendered patterns in drug cases requires a reintegration, coordination, gender responsive, and community-based approach.

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