In the Era of Tokhang: Lived Experiences of Women Drug Surrenderees

Abstract

The issue of illicit drugs has strained the health care system, peace and order, and even economic progress. This study explored the lived experiences of women Tokhang surrenderees of the Municipality of Kolambugan, Lanao del Norte, during the country's implementation of its anti-drug campaign, the Project Double Barrel-Tokhang. Five participants were selected through purposive sampling. This study utilized a qualitative design that used Husserlian phenomenology with Colaizzi's (1978) method of data analysis. An interview was used to gather the research data using the semi-structural interview guide. Three themes emerged in this study, namely: the domino effect of jinxed circumstances of drug abuse among women before the era of Tokhang; the feeling of apprehension during the time of surrender to Tokhang, creating a false fear of arrest and imprisonment; and a whole new life and a new beginning after surrendering to Tokhang. The lives of the women of Tokhang surrenderees have positively changed after they decided to turn their backs on illegal drugs. This situation indicates that the campaign against drugs gives a better option for the surrenderees to have a renewed life. This study recommends establishing a drug treatment system and services that will be integrated into every pillar of the Philippine criminal justice system better to secure every Filipino's public health and safety. Keywords : anti-drug campaign, domino effect, drug user, illicit drugs, imprisonment