Rise of informal group leaders in Bilibid prison

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the rise of informal group leaders in Bilibid Prison. The study also explored how informal group leaders adapted to the new social climate that they have been immersed in upon imprisonment, how informal leaders dealt with the level of uncertainty presented by meeting members of the prison community for the first time, what qualities were necessary for informal group leaders to possess to make their followers view them as leaders, and how these leaders gained and strengthened the respect and social status that they possess within the high-tension environment of a prison community. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten current group leaders from Bilibid's Minimum Security Camp. These results then underwent an intensive review and thematic analysis of the gathered narratives. The study's findings showed that new inmates adapted to the new social climate through the acceptance of their current situation, strengthening their personality or individual characteristics, utilizing previously established connections, becoming affiliated with a social group, and seeking information. Uncertainty during first meetings is dealt with through the expression of non-verbal warmth, engaging in verbal communication, and having confidence in their own abilities. Potential leaders are expected to practice pakikisama, to possess power over their followers, and to share what they have with their followers. Finally, in strengthening their group status, leaders are expected to continue practicing pakikisama, to treat their group members with respect, to show that they have no ulterior motives in aspiring for the group's unity, to treat the group as they would treat their own family, and to have a positive demeanor in daily situations.