Balayong: Reintegrating Formerly Incarcerated Persons (FIPs) into Society through Blockchain

Victorienne C. Tiu1Cris Lawrence Adrian G. Militante1Bryan Ignatius P. Sanchez1Fitzsixto Angelo L. Singh1

1Department of Computer, Information Sciences, and Mathematics, University of San Carlos, Cebu City, Philippines

A Paper Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for IBCOL 2023

Sustainable Development Goals

Keywords

Formerly Incarcerated PersonsBlockchainSocietal StigmatizationDiscriminationTransparencyLaw Enforcement AgenciesPenal SystemSocial Inclusivity

Abstract

This paper introduces Project Balayong, a groundbreaking initiative designed to facilitate the reintegration of Formerly Incarcerated Persons (FIPs) into society. FIPs face numerous barriers to building sustainable lives, including employment challenges, societal stigmatization, and explicit discrimination, which result in escalating rates of unemployment and homelessness upon release. The core objective of Project Balayong is to reduce the stigma surrounding FIPs by providing employers with a transparent and immutable summary of an individual's time spent in prison through an electronic-curriculum vitae (e-CV), powered by blockchain technology. Additionally, Project Balayong offers an online job board, enabling employers to identify potential FIP candidates for employment post-release.

The profound impact of Project Balayong extends far beyond its innovative approach to rehabilitation. By enabling FIPs to present a record of their positive activities during incarceration, it empowers them with a renewed sense of purpose and self-worth. With access to employment opportunities and a fair chance at reintegrating into society, FIPs are less likely to resort to criminal activities out of necessity. This shift not only reduces recidivism rates but also alleviates the burden on the penal system and law enforcement agencies. Moreover, as employers participate in this transformative initiative, they become champions of social change, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society. Project Balayong represents a beacon of hope for FIPs, a testament to society's commitment to second chances, and a step toward a more equitable and harmonious future for all.

This initiative champions social inclusivity through blockchain technology, empowering Formerly Incarcerated Persons and advocating for second chances, equity, and individual potential.