Understanding the Lived Experiences of Children in Conflict with the Law Undergoing a Rehabilitation Program in Solano, Nueva Vizcaya

Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL) in the Philippines faced poverty, family problems, and stigma, making rehabilitation more than just following rules. This study focused on CICL in Solano, Nueva Vizcaya, showing how local conditions shaped their experiences and highlighted the need for child-centered programs. Guided by Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory and the Input–Process–Output model, the research examined how family, community, and institutional programs affected rehabilitation. Using a phenomenological design, the researchers conducted interviews and analyzed them using Colaizzi’s method to capture the children's authentic voices. Findings revealed that while arrest was initially painful, participants later saw it as a rescue from worse paths. They struggled with loneliness, stress, and separation from their families, but support from family, staff, peers, and spiritual practices helped them cope. They valued mental and spiritual support more than material aid, and rehabilitation taught respect, prayer, and self-control. Some children took on leadership roles, developed stronger identities, and gained practical skills such as cleanliness and industriousness. Their experiences emphasized the importance of family visits, emotional support, and inclusive community reception. Ultimately, they aspired to finish school, support their families, and face stigma with resilience. The study recommended that CICL remain engaged in rehabilitation, while families, schools, communities, and local government provided consistent emotional, educational, and social support. By documenting these lived experiences, the research contributed localized insights that strengthened child-focused rehabilitation practices in rural settings.