Unveiling the Lived Experiences of Rebel Returnees: A Phenomenological Study

Abstract

The government offers aftercare programs for rebel returnees by providing numerous works, livelihood, and education as part of the reintegration process. The government spearheaded attempts to reach this group to halt armed conflict or convince them to surrender (Martinez, 2018). This study anchored on the social control theory of Travis Hirschi, Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytic theory of personality, and the theory of Motivation by Abraham Maslow. This study utilizes a qualitative phenomenological approach to describe lived experience of rebel returnees. This study conducted at New Bataan, Davao de Oro, uses a snowball sampling technique to identify the eight (8) rebel returnees. The study has drawn themes of Life Struggle, Effective Government Peace Agreement, Recruitment Process, Taste of Freedom, Value for Education, and Long- Lived Family. The rebel returnees never failed to make a wiser decision for good. They have realized essential lessons based on their experiences that could be a treasure for the rest of their lives. The government has never deprived them of the right to life and be free, yet, they are all provided with different offers from the government to start a new life. Furthermore, it is recommended to research further about the experiences of rebel returnees to get extensive answers and experiences. It is also recommended to bring their comprehensive learning insights after those experiences.