For Tantan, the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth (RRCY) was not merely a facility for rehabilitation. It became a bridge that mended the broken pieces of his life and reignited his aspirations.

The Fracture of Family Ties

Family is often described as the smallest yet most significant unit of society—a foundation where values, love, and culture are nurtured. But what happens when this vital unit is broken?

Tantan’s life began to unravel at the age of 14 when his parents separated. Left in the care of his grandparents with his three siblings, he was thrust into a world of emotional turmoil.

This instability deepened when he was accused of a crime, he maintained he did not commit—a murder allegation that darkened his already fragile existence. The weight of this accusation and the societal stigma that followed pushed Tantan further into isolation and despair.

As a Child in Conflict with the Law (CICL), he was referred to the DSWD’s RRCY in Field Office V, where his journey to healing and transformation began

A Sanctuary of Hope and Transformation

Before arriving at RRCY, Tantan was described as shy and reserved, struggling to adapt to his unfamiliar surroundings. Yet within the center’s walls lay the promise of healing and a fresh start.

“Mahiyain talaga yang si Tantan,” Social Worker Shema Ballesteros shared. “Pero kahit ganon, active at nagle-lead talaga siya sa mga activities. Tahimik pero pursigido.”

Through activities like basketball, Tantan began forming genuine friendships. He fondly recalled the sports festival, where he felt a sense of belonging and family.

“Natatandaan ko pa ang sigawan ng lahat habang naglalaro kami ng basketball—hindi lang ito tungkol sa panalo, kundi sa saya ng pagiging bahagi ng isang grupo,” he reminisced.

Beyond social connections, Tantan’s unwavering faith stood out. Known for his dedication to spiritual activities, he drew strength from his relationship with God, believing that his faith would one day reunite him with his family and clear his name.

Rebuilding Bonds and Rediscovering Self

The RRCY became more than a rehabilitation center—it was a haven for restoring lives and relationships.

Counseling sessions and family activities facilitated open communication, allowing Tantan and his family to mend their strained ties.

“Malaki ang naging tulong ng RRCY sa relasyon ko sa aking mga magulang. Sa mga counseling sessions, natutunan naming mag-usap nang mas maayos at pakinggan ang isa’t isa,” Tantan shared.

Through life skills training and tailored programs, he regained his confidence and began dreaming again. The values of respect, love, and forgiveness instilled at the center helped him rebuild his family connections.

A more pivotal moment came when he reconnected with his mother. Though their relationship had been strained by years of separation and misunderstanding, the RRCY facilitated moments of dialogue and healing, allowing them to rebuild their bond.

“Isang araw, habang nag-uusap kami ng aking ina, napaiyak siya at sinabing natatakot siyang baka balikan ko ang dati kong buhay na nakikipagsalamuha sa mga maling kaibigan. Doon ko sinabi sa kanya na nagbago na ako at gusto ko nang magsimula muli,”

This simple act of reconnection with his mother marked a moment of hope and change that Tantan eagerly proved by showing all the learnings he acquired from the center. Eventually, 11 months after getting admitted, he was discharged and returned to his previous life under the custody of his mother.

A New Beginning

After 11 months at RRCY, Tantan was discharged and returned to his mother’s custody. With renewed purpose, he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Criminology, aiming to serve as a police officer.

During the Criminologist Licensure Examination, Tantan met an unexpected mentor—DSWD FOV Regional Director Norman S. Laurio.

Inspired by Tantan’s determination, Director Laurio offered guidance and encouragement, helping him overcome challenges.

“Malaki ang naitulong sa akin ni RD Laurio. Sa kaniyang paggabay, natutunan ko ang kahalagahan ng pagsusumikap at pagiging matatag sa pagharap ng mga hamon. Hindi lang siya naging isang lider, kundi isang mentor na tunay na nagbigay ng suporta at inspirasyon,” Tantan said.

And just recently, on November 18, 2024, Tantan graduated from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and is now a full-fledged police officer, committed to serving not just his community but also building a stronger foundation for himself and his family.

A Life Rooted in Love and Service

Tantan’s aspirations go beyond his career. He dreams of building a family founded on love and unity—a stark contrast to the broken home he once knew.

Reflecting on his journey, he said, “Para sa mga katulad kong dating CICL, nais kong iparating na walang bagay na imposibleng baguhin ang ating buhay. Ang ating nakaraan ay hindi kailangang maging hadlang sa ating hinaharap.”

Tantan’s story is a testament to the power of second chances, the importance of faith, and the role of support systems in transforming lives.

Through the DSWD FOV RRCY, he found a renewed sense of purpose, bridging the gaps in his life and building a brighter future.

“Ang pagbabago ay nagsisimula sa atin. Magtiwala tayo sa ating sarili at sa mga institusyong handang tumulong sa atin. Ang buhay ay puno ng oportunidad, at dapat nating ibigay ang ating makakaya upang magtagumpay,” he concluded.