GMA Kapuso Foundation helps former inmate return home after release

Trigger Warning: This article contains mentions of sexual abuse.

After nearly three decades of incarceration, a former inmate was finally able to return home and reunite with her family, thanks to GMA Kapuso Foundation.

According to “24 Oras,” Friday, “Linda," who received her certificate of discharge in August, faced immense challenges from a young age, including hardship at the hands of her father and criminal syndicates.

“Na-rape ako ng papa ko. Isang araw, pinapili niya ako sa tatlong bagay: ang mabuhay ka, mamatay ka, o pumatay ka. Pinili ko ‘yung hindi ko gusto para lang mabuhay,” she said.

During her 29 years of imprisonment, “Linda” deeply regretted her past actions.

While serving her sentence, she chose to dedicate her time to helping others and engaged in activities such as dancing and teaching senior citizens.

Upon her release in August, “Linda” was transported by the GMA Kapuso Foundation from the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong City to her home province, where she was immediately welcomed with tight hugs from her family.

They were also treated to an outing and were given groceries for their daily needs.

“Lubas na katuwaan dahil hindi ko akalain na darating pa ‘tong ganitong pagkakataon,” her mother said. 

“Gusto ko pong makahanap ng maayos sa trabaho para po makapag-umpisa at matulungan ko naman po ‘yung pamilya ko,” "Linda" said.

For those who are interested to help, GMA Kapuso Foundation is accepting donations through bank deposits, Cebuana Lhuillier, GCash, Shopee, PayMaya, Zalora, MegaMart, Globe Rewards, Metrobank credit card, and Lazada.

For more information, visit the GMA Kapuso Foundation website.

—Carby Rose Basina/CDC, GMA Integrated News