Chapter 1
The Problem and its Background
Introduction
A job is a piece of work or task that is assigned to a person with an agreed price or amount of salary. Having a stable job is one thing that every person strives for. It means having something that would help sustain not only the family’s basic needs for everyday life but also to secure one’s future. Unemployment is a stressful life event that can lead to financial difficulties, depression, anxiety, somatic symptoms, and increased substance use. (Wanberg 1999). It results to emotional health problems due to depression and anxiety as well as low self esteem and lose of respect from other people due to the inability to support one’s self and his family. In order to be employed, one of the most common requirements of an employer or a business establishment is that a person applying for work should be of good moral character. In most cases, a job applicant is required to secure clearances from either the National Bureau of Investigation or the Philippine National Police. The clearances serve as certificate of good moral character and behavior. The clearance reveals if a person has a clean police record or if he/she has been already convicted of a crime. The employment situations of ex-convicts are a different story because the certificate secured from the said law enforcement agency reveals that the applicant has a bad record on file. Employers tend to reject people with a criminal record for the following reasons: people with a criminal record are seen, generally, as undesirable, to show moral disapproval; concern that employers would be held responsible for recruiting a person with a criminal record. As of now, there is no known employment statistics concerning ex-convicts and even if there is, it has not been used to help ex-convicts in gaining employment. In Lipa City. Almost 66 per cent of ex-convicts suffer financial difficulty and unemployment after having been released from prison. Despite the fact that the rest gained employment, not even half of it can be considered as decent source of living. Most ex-convicts become stagnant for a long period of time after coming out of prison but are able to find job eventually if they search long enough. Primarily because of lack of education, ex-convicts end up in jobs which tend to pay minimum wage, have few benefits if there are any, and little opportunity for advancement. Some of the jobs which are commonly the fall back for male ex-convicts are those jobs which do not need high qualifications and end up in a short period of time making them unemployed again eventually. Few ex-convicts were able to make it in the labor market. There were others who end up in clerical jobs and field works but these are few from the ex-convict population who have educational attainment and job experiences. The level of unemployment is high but is not apparent how much unemployment is affected by their previous conviction. In the Philippines, despite the awareness to the need of ex-convicts for acceptance, there are still instances that most of them feel the discrimination as regards to their status orientation. They sometimes experience prejudices in a job application because of the stigma. It is generally assumed by many that a convicted person in not of good moral character. If a person has been convicted of a criminal offense, employers feel hesitant in employing him no matter how qualified he could be. Most employers are less willing to hire an ex-convict because of the security risk they posses. It is very evident that an ex-convict has a smaller chance of being since employers have a lot of choices over unemployed individuals who have not been convicted of a criminal offense. The issue of employer discrimination has been addressed in a number of studies regarding unemployment of ex-convicts but the fact is, there are lot of other factors that affect their unemployment. A relatively small number of studies have looked at the factors which lead to unemployment among ex-convicts. These refer to barriers resulting from ex-convicts’ characteristics and those resulting from employer discrimination. Existing research suggests that the characteristics of ex-convicts which affect employment include social and personal factors and those which are more directly related to employment (Metcalf 2001). These other factors that affect employment of ex-convicts are health problems; low self esteem and self confidence; poor literacy and numeracy skills; low level of qualifications; a history of unemployment or experience of long-term unemployment; little experience of legitimate employment; and low motivation to find employment. Societal issue about employment of ex-convicts has not been quite addressed or sensationalized over the years but this problem exists in the minority of our population. Social reintegration becomes difficult because there are negative stigma which makes it harder for them. Finding employment is one of the greatest barriers to successful reintegration for ex-offenders (Harrison 2004). While having been in prison increases the likelihood of unemployment, the problem of unemployment among people with a criminal record is neither restricted to ex-convicts nor is caused, solely, by incarceration(Metcalf 2001). On the other hand, rehabilitation programs are actively implemented to eliminate the offender’s deviant behavior though institutional treatment programs. These programs are specially formulated for offenders in hopes that they will become productive and law abiding citizens of our society for the purpose of social inclusion after release. Rehabilitation programs are offered to inmates in Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Lipa, these includes religious services and recreational activities. BJMP has also guidelines and policies for implementing livelihood programs for inmates so they can continue to secure their basic necessities despite the fact that they are locked up in jail. Some of these livelihood programs are handicraft making which includes key chains and other home decors made of recycled materials but these livelihood programs are not available for released inmates. Based on the forgoing discussions and observations about ex-convicts, the researches got interested in conducting a study about the topic to determine whether the ex-convicts’ status has an implication to their job application and if there is problem of unemployment among released convicts in BJMP Lipa. The researchers want to know the main factors that causes unemployment of ex-convicts. The researchers also want to know the extent of support of the government through BJMP to ex-convict in terms of implemented livelihood programs.
Theoretical Framework Labeling Theory( Tibbets and Hemmens 2010) otherwise referred to as Social Reaction Theory, supports this study because it is primarily concerned with how an individual’s personal identity is highly influenced by the way that a society or authority tends to categorize them as offenders. This perspective assumes that people who are labeled offenders have virtually no choice but to conform to the role that they have been assigned by the society. This theory supports that people come up with a general personality assumption based on what little they know. An employer upon knowing that the applicant is an ex-convict, immediately infers violence and trouble to such applicant. This explains why employers feel hesitant in employing ex-convicts. This is because of the ex-convict status is inferred with violent behavior, deviance, and crime commission. Other theories like Attribution Theory (Jones and Davis), Strain Theory, and Correspondent Inferences are also appropriate for this study because these theories are similar to Labeling Theory and suggest that social perceptions of an individual such as an employer attaching bad behavior to an ex-convict applicant that prevents them from hiring from this population. It explains how employers ascribe their reactions based on criminal status. Their perspective affects hiring and placement of ex-convicts in the job-market

Another theory appropriate for this study is the Disparate Treatment Theory. This has been described as the most easily understood type of discrimination whereby employers simply treat some applicants or employees less favorably than others because of gender, age, race, social status, and other protected trait. Irving Goffman’s Theory of Social Stigma also supports this study. In his theory, the community tends to attribute a behavior or reputation which is socially discrediting in a particular way. It causes an individual to be mentally classified by others in an undesirable, rejected stereotype rather than in an accepted. This Social Stigmatization can be based on an individual’s sexual orientation, gender identity, skin tone, education, nationality, ethnicity, ideology, religion or criminality. Another theory appropriate in this study is the Negligent Hiring Theory. This theory states that an employer should be liable for retaining an employee who is known to be unfit for the position. This is the reason why employers feel hesitant in hiring ex convicts because employers do not want to be responsible for their wrong action. They generally assume that ex convicts are associated with deviance and violence.

Conceptual Framework

Figure 1
Paradigm of the Study The above figure show the profile of the ex-convicts in terms of age, sex, educational attainment, socio economic status and employment status. It shows the relationship of qualification and stigmatization to their employment status
Statement of the Problem This study sought to answer the factors influencing the employability of ex-convicts in Lipa city 1. What is the demographic profile of the respondents in terms of 1.1 age, 1.2 sex, 1.3 educational attainment, 1.4 socio-economic status, and 1.5 employment status? 2. What are the common problems encountered by ex-convicts in terms of: 2.1 qualifications and 2.2 stigmatization? 3. Is there a significant difference between the profile of the respondents and their assessment on the common problems encountered by ex- convicts in employment? 4. Is there a significant relationship between the profile of the respondents and their assessment on the common problems encountered by ex- convicts in employment? 5. What program could be formulated for the enhancement of employability of ex-convicts?

Significance of the study The researchers believe that this study entitled an assessment of Employability of Ex-convicts in Lipa City: Guide For Livelihood Program Development would be beneficial and significant to following:
BJMP. Through this study, BJMP may find this helpful and serve as basis in developing and enhancing livelihood programs not only for inmates but also for ex-convicts.
DOLE. Outcome of this study may serve as basis for the agency in improving policies that will serve as guideline for business establishments in hiring ex-convicts and define special right against discrimination.
Ex-convicts. the findings of this study may help the ex-convicts especially those residing in Lipa city by pursuing the government and other correctional institutions in developing livelihood programs specially for ex-convicts who are either lacks qualification or discriminated during job application.
The Local Government of Lipa. The findings of this study may serve as a basis for improving livelihood programs for ex-convicts in Lipa city.
Future Researchers. They may use the findings of this study as a reference when they conduct their own research which may be similar of nature or related to this study.

Null hypothesis The study sought to test the following null hypothesis
1. There is no significant relationship between the profile of the respondents and their assessment on problems encountered by the ex convicts in finding employment.
2. There is no significant difference between the profile of the respondents and their assessment on the common problems encountered by ex-convicts in employment. Scope and Delimitation of the Study The scope of the study focused mainly in the employability of the ex-convict. The researchers desire is to have an analysis of the problems encountered by ex-convict in employment which will serve as a basis for livelihood development of BJMP. The respondents of the study are seventy ex-convicts from BJMP residing in different barangays in Lipa. The research is limited only to the problems encountered by ex-convicts in employability in terms of qualifications and stigmatization. The duration of the study is from June 2013-October 2013.

Definition of terms For the purpose of clarification, the following terms were defined as used in the study Employment. As used as in this study, is the state of having a job and having a regular source of income . Employability. This term refers to the capability of an individual to gain employment considering their qualifications required by the employer. Ex-convict. This term refers to Individuals whom after incarceration were released from prison after serving the necessary sentence given by the court. Job. It is a regular activity performed in exchange of a payment. Livelihood Program. As used in this study, these are programs implemented by BJMP and other institutions that help ex-convicts to secure their basic necessities. Police Clearance. It is an official document issued by the PNP that enumerates any criminal records that an applicant may have. Qualification. As used in this study, it is the skill or achievement that makes a person suitable to do a job. Stigmatization. As used in this study, it is the characterization of ex convicts as disgraceful, ignominious, or deviant.

CHAPTER II
Review of Related Literature and Studies The review of related literature and studies presented here as meant to provide researchers with insights hat contribute to the development of the study.

Related Literature
Foreign Literature In an article written by Naylor(2012) entitled “Living Down The Past: Why A Criminal Record Should Not Be A Barrier To Successful Employment”, employment is the key to reintegrating former offenders into society and preventing reoffending. However, increasing numbers of employers require criminal record or police checks as part of the employment process, making this reintegration process more difficult for ex-convicts and reducing the available labour pool for their industry/business Conviction brings both collateral and direct effect. Example of Collateral consequence are the loss of the right to vote, loss of citizenship, loss of the right to own a firearm, and loss of ability to hold certain jobs Cromwell et al(2008). Issues related to employment of former convicts include the definition of good moral character, working in public and private employment, restriction in an individual’s ability to be bonded and restrictions on various occupational licenses. Federal state and local government trough United States restrict entry in more than 800 occupations and professions through licensing requirements Cromwell et al(2008). It is almost universally assumed that a person who has been convicted of a criminal offense lacks good moral character. The obstacle created by the provision and assumption about good character are all more serious because a convicted person has difficult time of proving or restoring his character. According to an ex-convict author, Richard S. Jones(2008), many occupations and professions are closed to ex-convicts, they are routinely barred from commercial and government positions because of the stigma attached to their social status. In an article written by Meyerowitz(2008), no business makes random employment decisions. Indeed, human resources departments and consulting firms exist precisely because firms endeavor to select and reward employees in ways that are intended to improve upon arbitrary or random treatment. Some employers disfavor an applicant who belongs to a protected class or groups with indifferent social status. This explains why ex-convicts find it hard to find employment release. According to Nancy Louks(2008) while just scratching the surface of a highly complex issue, has endeavored to show that current provisions do not address the issue of the employment of ex-offenders adequately, but that many of the problems can be remedied. Guidelines that can affect the employment of people with a criminal record must be employed and positive changes need to be encouraged. The successful re-integration of ex-offenders into society is essential for the prevention of future crime. As stated by Shadd Maruna(2008), imprisonment disrupts the normative process that encourages or sustains desistance from crime by cutting off opportunities for achieving success in employment. It is hard for prisoners to retain or subsequently to secure law-abiding jobs. Almost two-thirds of prisoner in employment at the point of sentence lose their job as a result of their imprisonment. He also said that 66.6 percent of prisoners have no job on release and only 16 percent receive any advice or guidance about finding a job. Numerous surveys of employers find that a record of incarcerations almost fatal hiring contexts. According to Jones(2008), some ex-convicts are moderately harmless persons who have done unintelligent things in the past perhaps committed a lot of minor troublesome offenses. Even though these crimes may be minor, most conventional people attribute mistaken meanings and motives to their acts and perceive them as serious criminals. Employers think that if they hire an ex-convict applicant, they will steal from their employers which is a normal perception for ex-convicts. According to Afouxenidis, et al(2003), ex-convicts belong to a particular type of marginalized group. Some of the problems that they face are related to: schooling and professional qualifications; employment habits; life style and routines; socialized problems and difficulties to adapt to certain varieties of social life and various physical and psychological dependencies. The above factors require more exploration in order to see whether this or that system of reintegration and rehabilitation can actually work. This issue is not new, of course, and society will continue to confront it as long as individuals complete their prison sentence and are left to return to the community. Therefore, a broader approach to the whole issue of reintegration is required which will take into account the above factors and bring together different parts of the community with the scope to intervene in the actual process of the transition from prison life to social life. This includes the stable employment of ex-convicts to prevent re-offending. As stated by Metcalf et al(2001), there are lots of employment barriers faced by ex convicts. Some of these are poor employment characteristics such as literacy, qualifications, employment record, problems over revealing a criminal record which results to lack of confidence, other characteristics which can reduce employment performance such as drug dependency and homelessness, and employer discrimination.

Local Literature According to Arroyo, D.(2012), employers, most if not all, are reluctant to hire former prisoners because of their criminal past. It is unfair once they are out of prison , ex-convicts are denied of a decent source of livelihood brought about by the stigma of their delinquent past. Statistics reveal that ex-convicts have a slimmer chance of being employed after their release. Arroyo G.(2012) also mentioned that it would be easier for ex-convicts to turn over a new leaf by becoming gainfully employed when they return to the outside world. Given that life inside prison is more than enough punishment for their trespasses against society, it is unfair that they are unjustly denied of a decent source of livelihood brought about by the stigma of their past. According to Foronda(2008), ex-convicts find it difficult to successfully reintegrate to mainstream society because of the stigma attached to their individuality. Most of the ex-convicts experience depression because of being unemployed. As stated by Guzman(2001), employers see to it that the employees they hire are not only qualified in terms of skills and health condition, but also of sound mind and good reputation. Employers don’t just hire people, they also want to make sure that they hire the right one. Aside from evaluating skills and ability, most companies conduct background investigation to eliminate the risk of hiring criminal offenders.

Related Studies In a study by Dutcher(2010) entitled, “Employment of People with Criminal Records: An Exploratory Study of the State of Georgia” he stated that Individuals in Georgia with criminal records have many barriers and collateral consequences which impact their ability to find employment upon release from prison. He also said that public administrators play an important role and should both educate the portion of their community who have criminal records as well as inform employers of the incentives available for those who hire these ex-offenders. Georgia employers deny a candidate a position based on the person’s arrest record even if that arrest did not lead to a conviction of a crime. Employers in Georgia also deny employment or terminate a person based on his or her criminal record without requiring the individual's history, circumstance or the necessity to the business at which the person functions

According to Medlock (2009) in his study entitled, "Preparing Inmates For Community Re-Entry: An Employment Preparation Intervention", the majority of the ex-offenders want to work. Many desire to be contributing members of society and to have a fresh, clean start at life. However, the multiple challenges of re-entry present a roadblock to some that seems insurmountable. The government intervention caps assist ex-offenders desiring a job potentially alter the way they view their strengths, their resources and their supports and empower them to take risks and learn new skills. The government intervention can normalize the stresses related to finding employment and encourages participants to seek help job search. The potential implications of this type of intervention allow inmates to provide support for each other and may create inherent support systems of ex offenders. Moreover, they may create/motivate ex-offenders to take action to further this cause and support each other on the outside. In addition, this type of intervention may create a movement toward activism ownership instead of passivity and blame. The results of the present dissertation study support the following conclusions about interventions with ex-offenders. According to Molden(2009), entitled “Unlocking Doors for the Locked-Out: How Can Community Colleges Help to Demolish Barriers, Build Bridges, and Transition Male Ex-Offenders into the Workforce” the findings indicate clearly that male ex-offenders encounter a number of barriers to their entry into the workforce such as lack of education, recidivism, criminal background, and mindset. Screening, life skills, and connection and job placements were the three themes identified as various types of education and support services that community colleges could provide in order to assist this marginalized population in overcoming these barriers.

According to the study of Visher, et al.(2008) "Employment After Prison", a Longitudinal Study of Releases in three States”, most individuals released from prison held some type of job prior to incarceration and want legal, stable employment upon release. Some criminal justice research suggests that finding and maintaining a legitimate job can reduce former prisoners' chances of reoffending, and the higher the wage, the less likely it is that individuals will return to crime. During the time spent in prison, may lose work skills and are given little opportunity to gain useful work experience. Moreover, the availability of job training programs in prison has declined in recent years. A large proportion of former prisoners have low levels of educational attainment and work experience, health problems, and other personal characteristics that make them hard to employ. According to Holzer et al (2003) in his study entitled “Employment Dimensions of Re-entry: Understanding the Nexus between Prisoner Re-entry and Work”, ex-offenders have a variety of characteristics that greatly limit their employability and earning capacities. These include limited education and cognitive skills and limited work experience that is why ex-convicts will have some difficulty obtaining job offers from employers even in the absence of their criminal records. But the fact that they have criminal records will then further limit what is available to them, as most employers are very reluctant to hire those with such records.

According to Lam et al(2003) In her study entitled “The Use of Criminal Record in Employment Decisions: The Right of Ex Offenders, Employers and the Public”, evidence suggests that employers discriminate against ex-convicts in the labor market. The problem is potentially serious as it involves a substantial proportion of the population.

Local Studies The study of Teñoso et al.(2012) entitled "Alternative Learning System Program Geared Towards the Rehabilitation of Prisoners: An Assessment", recommended that the government should have a program and agencies that will help the prisoners to get a job when they are released in jail or prisons and they should have a seminars to the prisoners to help them getting job. The study of Silva et al( 2012) entitled Determinant Factors of Non-Employability in the PNP among Criminology Graduates states that academic factors really affects employability of Criminology graduates in applying to PNP as well as physical, psychological and sociological factors. Based on a study conducted by Vergara et al (2012) entitled Homosexual Rights Against Discrimination: Its Implication To Job Performance, homosexuals experience prejudice because of the stigma and homophobia that impede their rights against gender discrimination. Different perceptions of employers from government and non-government organization soon homosexuals’ rights against discrimination based on sexual orientation arise. These cause employers to put emphasis on their sinful behavior and they are sometimes treated as outcast.

Synthesis The study by Dutcher(2010) entitled, “Employment of People with Criminal Records: An Exploratory Study of the State of Georgia” is similar to the present study because they both studied the barriers faced by ex-convicts when it comes to employment. It also dealt with stigmatization as one of the main factors affecting an ex-convicts employability. They differed in locale because the previous study was conducted in Georgia while the present study was conducted in Lipa City. The previous study also aimed to enhance the livelihood programs already offered by the state to ex convicts while the present study endeavours to serve as basis for livelihood program development specially for the ex convicts. The study conducted by Medlock(2009) entitled, "Preparing Inmates For Community Re-Entry: An Employment Preparation Intervention" is similar to the present study because they both studied the effect of incarceration to an ex convict’s employability. Both study dealt with the factors affecting the employability of ex convicts. The only difference of the studies is that the previous study focused on male ex convicts while the present study focused both male and female respondents who are randomly chosen. The study by Molden(2009) entitled, entitled “Unlocking Doors for the Locked-Out: How Can Community Colleges Help to Demolish Barriers, Build Bridges, and Transition Male Ex-Offenders into the Workforce” is similar to the present study because they both studied the barriers that ex-convicts encounter in entering the work force and the supports and services that the government give to ex-convicts. Some of their differences are locale since the previous study was conducted in Georgia while the present study was conducted in Lipa City. The previous study also focused with male offenders while the present study dealt with randomly selected male and female offenders. The study of Visher et al(2008) entitled “Employment After Prison: A Longitudinal Study Of Releases In Three States” is similar to the present study because it focused on the variables and reasons affecting the employability of ex-convicts. They differ in variables which are used in the study. The current study included the demographic profile of the respondents in terms of age, gender, educational status, and socio economic status while the previous study also included race, criminal record and prison sentence. According to Holzer et al (2003) in his study entitled “Employment Dimensions of Re-entry: Understanding the Nexus between Prisoner Re-entry and Work” is similar to the present study because it also studied factors aside from stigmatization which affect the unemployment of ex-convicts. Their difference is that the previous study also focused on ways on how an ex-convict can successfully reconcile with his community while the present study focused only on employment. According to Lam et al(2003) In her study entitled “The Use of Criminal Record in Employment Decisions: The Right of Ex Offenders, Employers and the Public” is similar to the present study because it also tackled discrimination as the main factor of unemployment of ex-convicts. It also studied different factors that affect their unemployment. The only difference is that the previous study dealt with male offenders only in the country of Australia while the present study dealt with both male and female ex-convicts in Lipa City.

The study of Teñoso et al.(2012) entitled "Alternative Learning System Program Geared Towards the Rehabilitation of Prisoners: An Assessment" is similar to the present study because both studies discussed the job opportunities accessible to ex convicts. Both studies also discussed the future when it comes to employment after the release of an inmate. The difference is that the respondents of the previous study are convicts who are still serving their sentence while the present study dealt with released convicts. The previous study also focused on effects Alternative Learning Program offered to inmates on their employability after they are released while the present study focused on the factors such as qualification and stigma which affect the employability of ex-convicts. The study of Silva et al( 2012) entitled Determinant Factors Of Non-Employability In The PNP Among Criminology Graduates is similar to the present study because both studies discussed the factors which affect or determines the employability of an individual. The difference is that the respondents of the previous study dealt with Criminology graduates while the present study dealt with ex-convicts. The study conducted by Vergara et al (2012) entitled Homosexual Rights Against Discrimination: Its Implication To Job Performance supported the present study because it also focused on stigma attached to homosexuals which affects employers perception on such individual. The only difference is that the present study dealt with ex-convicts while the previous study dealt with homosexuals.

CHAPTER III
Research Methodology This chapter presents the research design used in the study, the population, the sampling technique used in the sample size, the methodology used in gathering the data, and the procedures for interpretation.
Research Design The main purpose of the study is to assess the employability of ex convicts in Lipa City. To achieve this purpose, the researchers utilized the descriptive method. Descriptive method is used to gather information that is useful in describing the different variables related in the study. It also helps to determine the relationship effect and difference between these variables. It is a research that describes the distribution of a variable throughout the population.

Respondents of the Study The respondents of the study were limited to seventy (70) ex convicts in Lipa. The said study focused on the said ex convicts in order to assess their employability after being released from prison. This study utilized purposive random sampling method.

Data Gathering Instrument In this study, the researchers used survey questionnaire focusing on the respondents profile such as age, gender, educational attainment, socio-economic status and employment status. The chosen respondents accomplished documentation by answering all the questions posted in the questionnaire. The researchers also used different references such as books, dictionary, and sample data of unpublished theses from which related literature were derived. They also browsed the internet website to gather related literature and studies.

Sampling Technique The researchers made use of purposive sampling in selecting the respondents of the study. This was based from the assumption that they were the most qualified respondents of the study because they have the ability to give needed information about the factors that affect them in applying for a job.

Validation of Instrument The questionnaire was validated through the participation of a sample respondents that were not considered as the actual respondents of the study. The result of the trial run ws satisfactory, hence, the instrument was administered to the actual respondents after incorporating some necessary adjustments and improvement to arrive at a redefined copy of the instrument.

Data Gathering Procedure The researchers followed the step by step gathering procedure in conducting the study. First, the title was formulated and then approved by their adviser. Second, the researchers asked the approval of the Chairman of Criminology to conduct the study. Questionnaires were then distributed which was immediately followed by the collection of data. The data were tallied, analyzed, and interpreted using the appropriate statistical treatments.

Statistical Treatment The data gathered were placed in tables complete with the number and title to identify the content of a particular illustration, the arrangement of data in the table facilitated computation for analysis and interpretation. 1. Frequency Count. This was used to determine the relative distribution of the respondent’s profile such as age, gender, educational attainment, socio- economic status and employment status. 2. Ranking. This treatment was used to determine the relative position of the respondent’s profile and their perceptions on the title in terms of the aforementioned variables. 3. Weighted Mean. This was used to determine the average perception of the respondents regarding the factors that affect their employability. The following Likert Scales were used to as basis for the implementation of the said perceptions:

Range Verbal Interpretations
4.20 – 5.00 Very Great Extent (VGE)
3.40 – 4.19 Great Extent (GE)
2.60 – 3.39 Moderately Extent ( ME)
1.80 – 2.59 Little Extent (LE)
1.00 – 1.79 Very Little Extent (VLE)

4. T-test. This was utilized to determine or measure the significant relationship between the profile of the respondents and their perceptions regarding the factors influencing the ex-convicts in gaining employment
5. Correlation Coefficient. This statistical treatment was used to determine the relationship between the respondents and their assessment on the common problems encountered by ex-convicts in employment.

CHAPTER IV
PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA This part of the study presents the analysis and interpretation of the gathered data from the questionnaires answered by the respondents. The presentation, interpretation and analysis of the said data were arranged in accordance with the questions posited on the statement of the problem.
1. Profile of the Respondents.
Tables 1- 5 show the distribution of profile of the respondents.
Table 1
Age Profile of the Respondents

Age Freq. %age Rank
50 years old and above 5 7.14 4
40 – 49 years old 25 35.71 2
30 – 39 years old 31 44.29 1
19 – 29 years old 9 12.86 3
Total 70 100 As stated in the table, the age range of 30 – 39 years old gained the highest frequency count of 31 or 44.29 percent and the highest rank of 1 followed by the age ranges of 40 – 49 and 19 – 29 years old with a frequency counts of 25 and nine or 35.71 and 12.86 percentages at ranks 2 and 3, respectively. The least was obtained by the age range of 50 years old and above with a frequency count of five or 7.14 percent at rank 4.
Table 2
Sex Profile of the Respondents

Sex Freq. %age Rank
Male 62 88.57 1
Female 8 11.43 2
Total 70 100 As stated in the table, 62 out of 70 total-respondents or 88.57 percent at rank 1 were male while eight or 11.43 percent at rank 2 were female.
Table 3
Educational Attainment Profile of the Respondents
Educational Attainment Freq. %age Rank
College Graduate 7 10.00 3.5
Vocational Graduate 7 10.00 3.5
College Undergraduate 4 5.71 6
High School Graduate 34 48.57 1
High School Undergraduate 5 7.14 5
Elementary Graduate 10 14.29 2
Elementary Undergraduate 3 4.29 7
Total 70 100

As gleaned in the table, 34 respondents or 48.57 percent at rank 1 were high school graduates followed by elementary graduate with a frequency count of 10 or 14.29 percent at rank 2. Next were on vocational and college graduates with equal frequency counts of seven or 10 percent at ranks 3.5. Ranked 5thand 6th were on high school and college undergraduates with frequency counts of five and four or 7.14 and 5.71 percentages The least was on elementary undergraduate with a frequency count of three or 4.29 percent at rank 7.

Table 4
Socio-Economic Status Profile of the Respondents

Monthly Income Freq. %age Rank
P12,001 – P22,000 9 12.86 2
P12,000 below 61 87.14 1
Total 70 100 As stated in the table, the monthly income of P12,000 and below made the highest frequency count of 61 or 87.14 percent at rank1. Meanwhile, the least frequency count of nine or 12.86 percent at rank 2 had P12,001 – P22,000 monthly income.

Table 5
Employment Status Profile of the Respondents
Employment Status Freq. %age Rank
Regular 14 20.00 3
Irregular 18 25.71 2
Not Employed 38 54.29 1
Total 70 100

As stated in the table, not employed got the highest frequency count of 38 or 54.29 percent at rank 1, irregular made 18 frequency counts or 25.71 at rank 2 and regular obtained 14.frequency counts or 20 percent at rank 3.
2. Assessment of the Respondents on the Common Problems Encountered by Ex-Convicts in Employment. Tables 6 – 7 give the assessment of the respondents on the common problems encountered by ex-convicts in employment.

Table 6
Assessment of the Respondents on the Common Problems
Encountered by Ex-Convicts in Employment in Terms of Qualifications

Indicators WM VI R
1. Hindi nakapagtapos ng pag-aaral. 4.06 A 7
2. Kulang ang kaalaman sa trabaho. 4.03 A 8
3. Hindi sapat ang karanasan sa trabaho. 4.27 SA 1
4. Walang bokasyonal na kakayahan. 4.17 A 4
5. Naging balakid ang edad sa paghahanap ng trabaho. 3.73 A 11
6. Hindi naaangkop ang kaalaman sa trabahong pinag-aplayan. 4.11 A 5
7. May kumpyansa sa sarili na makakahanap ng trabaho. 4.07 A 6
8. Walang kakayahang sumulat at magsalita sa wikang Ingles. 3.94 A 9
9. Maraming hikaw o may malaking tattoo sa katawan. 1.63 DA 15
10. Walang maisumiteng “clearance” na nanggaling sa PNP o NBI. 3.36 MA 13
11. Walang maisumiteng barangay clearance. 3.83 A 10
12. Hindi nakapasa sa “background investigation” na isinagawa ng tanggapan ng trabahong pinag-aplayan. 4.26 SA 2
13. Kulang sa taas. 2.71 MA 14
14. Hindi nakapasa sa mga medikal na pagsusuri. 3.64 A 12
15. Hindi nakapasa sa inisyal na pagsusulit at interbyu. 4.19 A 3
Composite Mean 3.73 A

Legend:
SA = Strongly Agree WM = Weighted Mean
A = Agree VI= Verbal Interpretation
MA = Moderately Agree R = Rank
DA = Disagree As presented in the table, the indicator “Hindi sapat ang karanasan sa trabaho” obtained the highest weighted mean of 4.27 and the highest rank of 1 followed by “Hindi nakapasa sa “background investigation” na isinagawa ng tanggapan ng trabahong pinag-aplayan” which yielded a weighted mean of 4.26 and a rank of 2. Both were adjectively rated as “strongly agree”. Next were on “Hindi nakapasa sa inisyal na pagsusulit at interbyu”, “Walang bokasyonal na kakayahan”, “Hindi naaangkop ang kaalaman sa trabahong pinag-aplayan”, “May kumpyansa sa sarili na makakahanap ng trabaho”, “Hindi nakapagtapos ng pag-aaral”, “Kulang ang kaalaman sa trabaho”, “Walang kakayahang sumulat at magsalita sa wikang Ingles” and “Walang maisumiteng barangay clearance”, “Naging balakid ang edad sa paghahanap ng tranaho” and “Hindi nakapasa sa mga medikal na pagsusuri” with weighted means of 4.19, 4.17, 4.11, 4.07, 4.06, 4.03, 3.94, 3.83, 3.73 and 3.64, ranks of 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12, respectively and similar adjective ratings of “agree”. These were followed by the indicators “Walang maisumiteng “clearance” na nanggaling sa PNP o NBI’’ and “Kulang sa taas” with weighted means of 3.36 and 2.71, ranks of 13 and 14 and similar verbal interpretations of “moderately agree”. The remaining and the least indicator was on “Maraming hikaw o may malaking tattoo sa katawan” which got a weighted mean of 1.63, a rank of 15 and interpretation of “disagree”. The composite mean was 3.73 with a verbal interpretation of “agree”.

Table 7
Assessment of the Respondents on the Common Problems
Encountered by Ex-Convicts in Employment in Terms of Stigmatization

Indicators WM VI R
1. Nahihirapang makahanap ng trabaho dahil naging batik na sa pangalan ang pagkakakulong. 3.41 A 8
2. Nawalan ng tiwala ang mga tao lalo na ang may-ari ng mga negosyo dahil sa pagkakakulong. 3.73 A 4
3. Naging balakid ang pagkakaroon ng record na “ex-convict” sa pagkakatanggap sa trabaho. 3.49 A 6
4. Nakaranas ng diskriminasyon sa pag-aaplay sa trabaho dahil sa rekord ng pagkakakulong. 4.06 A 3
5. Nagkaroon ng hiya o takot sa larangan ng paghahanap ng trabaho dahil sa rekord ng pagkakakulong. 4.23 SA 2
6. Nakaranas ng pangungutya mula sa pinagaaplayan ng trabaho. 3.09 MA 12
7. Hindi naging prayoridad ng pinag-aaplayang trabaho sa kabila ng sapat na kwalipikasyon. 4.44 SA 1
8. Hindi bunigyang halaga ng pinag aaplayang trabaho ang karanasan at kakayahan matapos malamang siya ay isang ex-convict. 3.61 A 5
9. Hindi na binigyan ng pagkakataong patunayan ang sarili, mga kakayahan at kwalipikasyon nang malamang siya ay isang ex-convict. 3.47 A 7
10. Binigyan ng pagkakataong matanggap sa trabaho ngunit inilagay sa pinakamababang posisyon sa kabila ng mataas na kwalipikasyon, karanasan, at kakayahan. 2.77 MA 14
11. Tinanggap sa trabaho sa kadahilanang kailangang kailangan ng mga kumpanya ng karagdagang magtatrabaho ngunit nakaranas ng matinding pagpapahirap at di makatarungang pagtrato mula sa mga namumuno at kasamahan sa kumpanya. 3.21 MA 9.5
12. Binigyan ng pagkakataong makapagtrabaho ngunit nakranas ng hindi makatarungang sweldo. Bukod sa maliit, hindi agad-agad na naibibigay sa takdang araw. 3.19 MA 11
13. Hindi na naideklarang ex-convict ang aplikante at hindi na rin nadiskobre ng employer ang rekord. 3.21 MA 9.5
14. Natanggap sa trabaho at nabuhay ng normal sa kumpanya. Napatunayang merong kakayahan at nagtatrabaho ng maayos upang makamtam ang hinahangad ng tagumpay sa kabila ng pagiging isang ex-convict. 3.07 MA 13
Composite Mean 3.50 A

Legend:
SA = Strongly Agree WM = Weighted Mean
A = Agree VI = Verbal Interpretation
MA = Moderately Agree R = Rank As stated in the table, two indicators were strongly agreed by the respondents. These were on “Hindi naging prayoridad ng pinag-aaplayang trabaho sa kabila ng sapat na kwalipikasyon” and “Nagkaroon ng hiya o takot sa larangan ng paghahanap ng trabaho dahil sa rekord ng pagkakakulong” with weighted means of 4.44 and 4.23 and ranks of 1 and 2, respectively. These were followed by “Nakaranas ng diskriminasyon sa pag-aaplay sa trabaho dahil sa rekord ng pagkakakulong”, “Nawalan ng tiwala ang mga tao lalo na ang may-ari ng mga negosyo dahil sa pagkakakulong”, “Hindi naging prayoridad ng pinag-aaplayang trabaho sa kabila ng sapat na kwalipikasyon”, “Naging balakid ang pagkakaroon ng record na “ex-convict” sa pagkakatanggap sa trabaho”, “Hindi na binigyan ng pagkakataong patunayan ang sarili, mga kakayahan at kwalipikasyon nang malamang siya ay isang ex-convict” and “Nahihirapang makahanap ng trabaho dahil naging batik na sa pangalan ang pagkakakulong” with weighted means of 4.06, 3.73, 3.61, 3.49, 3.47 and 3.41 at ranks 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8, respectively. These were all adjectively rated as “agree”. Ranked 9.5th were on “Tinanggap sa trabaho sa kadahilanang kailangang kailangan ng mga kumpanya ng karagdagang magtatrabaho ngunit nakaranas ng matinding pagpapahirap at di makatarungang pagtrato mula sa mga namumuno at kasamahan sa kumpanya” and “Hindi na naideklarang ex-convict ang aplikante at hindi na rin nadiskobre ng employer ang rekord” which yielded equal weighted means of 3.21 followed by “Binigyan ng pagkakataong makapagtrabaho ngunit nakranas ng hindi makatarungang sweldo. Bukod sa maliit, hindi agad-agad na naibibigay sa takdang araw”, “Nakaranas ng pangungutya mula sa pinagaaplayan ng trabaho” and “Natanggap sa trabaho at nabuhay ng normal sa kumpanya. Napatunayang merong kakayahan at nagtatrabaho ng maayos upang makamtam ang hinahangad ng tagumpay sa kabila ng pagiging isang ex-convict” which got weighted means of 3.19, 3.09 and 3.07 at ranks 11, 12 and 13, respectively. Rank 14, the least was on “Binigyan ng pagkakataong matanggap sa trabaho ngunit inilagay sa pinakamababang posisyon sa kabila ng mataas na kwalipikasyon, karanasan, at kakayahan” which made a weighted mean of 2.77. These were all verbally interpreted as “moderately agree”. The composite mean was 3.50 with a verbal interpretation of “agree”.
4. Difference on the Assessment of the Respondents on the Effectiveness of Different Programs of BJMP for the Inmates to Easily Adjust in the Prison Environment. Table 8 discusses the difference on the assessment of the respondents on the common problems encountered by ex-convicts in employment.

Table 8
Difference On The Assessment Of The Respondents On The Common Problems Encountered By Ex-Convicts In Employment

Variables t-value Decision Interpretation
Qualification and Stigmatization
1.027
Accept Ho
Not Significant Critical t-values: t0.05 = 1.703 t0.01= 2.473 df = 27

As seen in the table, the computed t-value of 1.027 was less than than the critical t-value of 1.703 at 0.05 level of significance with 27 degrees of freedoms, thus accepting the null hypothesis. This safely concludes that there is no significant difference on the assessment of the respondents on the common problems encountered by ex-convicts in employment.

Table 9 presents the relationship between profile of the respondents and their assessment on the common problems encountered by ex-convicts in employment .
Table 9
Relationship Between the Profile of the Respondents and Their Assessment on the Common Problems Encountered by Ex-Convicts in Employment

Variables Corr. Coeff. Corr. t-value Decision
Interpretation
Age 0.09 0.745 Accept Ho Not Significant
Sex 0.65 7.053 Reject Ho Highly Significant
Educational Attainment 0.57 5.721 Reject Ho Highly Significant
Socio-Economic Status 0.53 5.154 Reject Ho Highly Significant
Employment Status 0.11 0.913 Accept Ho Not Significant Critical t-values: t0.05 = 1.658 t0.01 =2.358 df = 68

As discussed in the table, the correlated t-values of 7.053 for sex, 5.721 for educational attainment and 5.154 for socio-economic status exceeded both the critical t-value of 1.658 and 2.358 at 0.05 and 0.01 levels of significance, respectively with 68 degrees of freedom, thus rejecting the null hypothesis. Meanwhile, the correlated t-values of 0.745 for age and 0.913 for employment status were less than the critical t-value at 0.05 level of significance with 68 degrees of freedom, thus accepting the null hypothesis. These safely mean that the respondents’ assessment on the common problems encountered by ex-convicts in employment have high significant relationships when grouped according to their sex, educational attainment and socio-economic status and no significant relationship when grouped according to their age and employment status.
5. Programs that can be formulated for the enhancement of employability of ex-convicts. The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology in Lipa City can coordinate with schools and create an educational program specially formulated for ex-convicts who have low level of education. These programs can range from short term to long term courses. These programs can be Formal Education which includes four-year courses and two-year courses since only 30% of ex-convicts in Lipa City were able to reach collegiate level. Another program which can be offered to ex-convicts is the Informal Education which will seek to give inmates numeracy, writing, reading and English literacy skills. Lastly, other vocational trainings other than those already offered by TESDA because most of the ex-convicts agreed that they were refused by employers because of lack of experience and lack of vocational skills. Personality development programs should also be created. This should help enhance their enthusiasm in looking for a job. This program should also boost an ex-convicts’ self confidence and improve socialization with others. This way self-degradation that hinders one to apply for work would be minimized

CHAPTER V
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS This chapter shows the recapitulation of the statement of the problem, summary of findings, conclusions and recommendations based on the data gathered, analyzed and interpreted.
Summary
This study aimed to assess the employability of Ex-Convicts of Lipa City. From the cited objective of this study, the researchers formulated the problems to gather the necessary needed data. Specifically, this study answered the following questions:
1. What is the profile of the respondents in terms of:
1.1. age,
1.2. sex,
1.3. educational attainment,
1.4. socio-economic status, and
1.5. employment status?
2. To what extent is the assessment of the respondents on the common problems encountered by ex-convicts in employment in terms of :
2.1. qualifications, and
2.2. stigmatization? 3. Is there a significant difference on the assessment of the respondents on the common problems encountered by ex-convicts in employment? 4. Is there a significant relationship between profile of the respondents and their assessment of the respondents on the common problems encountered by ex-convicts in employment? 5. What program could be formulated for the enhancement of employability of ex-convicts?

The researchers used the descriptive method of research with the questionnaire as the data gathering instrument. The hypotheses tested were no significant difference on the assessment of the respondents on the common problems encountered by ex-convicts in employment and no significant relationship between profile of the respondents and their assessment of the respondents on the common problems encountered by ex-convicts in employment. The statistical treatments used were frequency count, percentage, ranking, weighted mean, t-test, correlation coefficient and correlated t-test.

Findings The important findings of this study are presented in this section based on the statement of the problem. 1. Profile of the Respondents. 1.1. Age. The age range of 30 – 39 years old gained the highest frequency count of 31 or 44.29 percent while the least was obtained by the age range of 50 years old and above with a frequency count of five or 7.14 percent. 1.2. Sex. Sixty-two out of 70 total-respondents or 88.57 percent were male while eight or 11.43 percent were female. 1.3. Educational Attainment. Thirty-four respondents or 48.57 percent were high school graduates, the highest. On the other hand, the least was on elementary undergraduate with a frequency count of three or 4.29 percent. 1.4. Socio-Economic Status. The monthly income of P12,000 and below made the highest frequency count of 61 or 87.14 percent. Meanwhile, the least frequency count of nine or 12.86 percent had P12,001 – P22,000 monthly income. 1.5. Employment Status. Not employed got the highest frequency count of 38 or 54.29 percent , irregular made 18 frequency counts or 25.71 and regular obtained 14.frequency counts or 20 percent. 2. Assessment of the Respondents on the Common Problems Encountered by Ex-Convicts in Employment. 2.1. Qualifications. The indicator “Hindi sapat ang karanasan sa trabaho” obtained the highest weighted mean of 4.27 with a verbal interpretation of “strongly agree”. The remaining and the least indicator was on “Maraming hikaw o may malaking tattoo sa katawan” which got a weighted mean of 1.63 and interpretation of “disagree”. The composite mean was 3.73 with a verbal interpretation of “agree”. 2.2. Stigmatization. Two indicators were strongly agreed by the respondents. These were on “Hindi naging prayoridad ng pinag-aaplayang trabaho sa kabila ng sapat na kwalipikasyon” and “Nagkaroon ng hiya o takot sa larangan ng paghahanap ng trabaho dahil sa rekord ng pagkakakulong” with weighted means of 4.44 and 4.23. The least was on “Binigyan ng pagkakataong matanggap sa trabaho ngunit inilagay sa pinakamababang posisyon sa kabila ng mataas na kwalipikasyon, karanasan, at kakayahan” which made a weighted mean of 2.77. These was all verbally interpreted as “moderately agree”. The composite mean was 3.50 with a verbal interpretation of “agree”
3. Difference on the Assessment of the Respondents and Their Assessment on the Common Problems Encountered by Ex-Convicts in Employment The computed t-value of 1.027 was less than the critical t-value of 1.703 at 0.05 level of significance with 27 degrees of freedoms, thus accepting the null hypothesis. 4. Relationship Between the Profile of the Respondents and Their Assessment on the Common Problems Encountered by Ex-Convicts in Employment. The correlated t-values of 7.053 for sex, 5.721 for educational attainment and 5.154 for socio-economic status exceeded both the critical t-value of 1.658 and 2.358 at 0.05 and 0.01 levels of significance, respectively with 68 degrees of freedom, thus rejecting the null hypothesis. Meanwhile, the correlated t-values of 0.745 for age and 0.913 for employment status were less than the critical t-value at 0.05 level of significance with 68 degrees of freedom, thus accepting the null hypothesis. Conclusions Based from the findings of the study, the following conclusions were drawn: 1. Majority of the respondents was old, male, high schools graduates, from low income families and not employed. 2. They agreed on the common problems encountered by ex-convicts in employment such as qualifications and stigmatization. 3. No significant difference on the assessment of the respondents on the common problems encountered by ex-convicts in employment. 4. The respondents’ assessment on the common problems encountered by ex-convicts in employment have high significant relationships when grouped according to their sex, educational attainment and socio-economic status and no significant relationship when grouped according to their age and employment status.

Recommendations Based from the conclusions drawn, the following are recommended:
1. The government should develop programs in terms of seminar which will help prisoners get a job after they are released from prison. Ex convicts who attended the said seminars should be issued certificates of participation which will serve as an eligibility for work.
2. The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology should enhance the livelihood programs offered to inmates and extend it to them after they are released from prison. This way, ex-convicts will have an immediate source of income after release.
3 The Bureau of Jail and Management Penology should provide personality development seminars and programs for ex-convicts which will help boost their confidence and ability to socialize with others. It will help ex-convicts feel confident in looking for a job in the future.
4. The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology could coordinate to the schools and encourage them to offer in demand college courses to inmates.
5. The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology should also coordinate with local businessmen and employers and encourage them to hire ex-convicts. BJMP personnel should conduct seminars in order to educate businessmen and employers about the bad effects of stigmatization to ex-convicts.

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