Lived Experiences of Incarcerated Person with Disabilities in Surigao Province

Myrna Seda Rudela, Jra.; Ada Marie T. Campos

doi:10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i04.86411

Lived Experiences of Incarcerated Person with Disabilities in Surigao Province

Author(s)	Ms. Myrna Seda Rudela, Jra., Dr. Ada Marie T. Campos
Country	Philippines
Abstract	Persons with disabilities who experience incarceration may encounter barriers that are intensified by the physical, social, and institutional conditions of correctional facilities. This study explored how incarcerated persons with disabilities described and made sense of their experiences within selected correctional facilities in Surigao Province, Philippines. A qualitative approach informed by a phenomenological orientation was employed, with data analyzed using Braun and Clarke's Reflexive Thematic Analysis. Fifteen incarcerated persons with disabilities from the Cantilan District Jail in Surigao del Sur and the Surigao City District Jail in Surigao del Norte participated in semi-structured interviews. Observations and key-informant accounts were also used to provide contextual support for the participants' narratives. Three overarching themes emerged: (1) Negotiating Daily Survival Through Interdependence, (2) Living in an Environment That Restricts Functioning and Participation, and (3) Enduring Marginalization While Cultivating Resilience and Hope. The findings indicate that participants frequently depended on fellow inmates, correctional personnel, and healthcare providers to manage mobility, communication, healthcare needs, and routine activities. They also encountered physical and institutional barriers, including difficult stairways, inaccessible pathways, restricted movement, communication difficulties, limited participation, and delays in accessing health-related services. Despite these challenges, participants demonstrated resilience through peer support, spirituality, acceptance, help-seeking, and adaptation. Their aspirations after release centered on improved health, greater independence, social connection, and a better quality of life. The findings highlight the need for disability-responsive correctional systems that address accessibility, communication, healthcare, psychosocial support, and staff capacity. An Inclusive Correctional Support and Accessibility Enhancement Program was proposed as a practical response to the identified concerns..
Keywords	incarcerated persons with disabilities, disability, correctional facilities, lived experiences, qualitative research, resilience, accessibility
Published In	Volume 8, Issue 4, July-August 2026
Published On	2026-08-24
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i04.86411

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Lived Experiences of Incarcerated Person with Disabilities in Surigao Province

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