WHAT IS VOLUNTEERISM?

Volunteerism is a program of the Parole and Probation Administration (PPA) aimed at

generating maximum, effective and efficient citizen participation and community
involvement in the process of client rehabilitation, prevention of crime and the overall
administration of criminal justice.
WHAT ARE ITS ADVANTAGES?
Probation and parole, as community-based treatment programs, depend on available
resources in the community for the rehabilitation of offenders. Thus, the Administration,
recognizing the important role of the community as a rehabilitation agent, involves the
community in probation and parole work through the use of volunteer workers and
welfare agencies.
The use of volunteer workers in probation and parole is worth adopting because it
opens new fields for community involvement in corrections and for training youth
leaders, barangay organizations, and civic groups in social development work. The use
of volunteers will also make it possible for the correctional system to exercise
supervision of offenders at less cost to the government.
WHAT ARE THE LEGAL BASES FOR VPA PROGRAM OF THE PPA?
Presidential Decree No. 968 permits the employment of Volunteer Probation
Aides (VPA), specifically under Sec 28 which states:
To assist the Provincial or City Probation Officers in the supervision of probationers, the
Probation Administrator may appoint citizens of good repute and probity to act as
probation aides.
Probation Aides shall not receive any regular compensation for services except for
reasonable travel allowance. They shall hold office for such period as may be
determined by the Probation Administrator. Their qualifications and maximum case
loads shall be provided in the rules promulgated pursuant to this Decree.

On October 11, 2005, President Gloria M. Arroyo signed Executive Order No.
468 revitalizing the VPA Program of the PPA to strengthen community
involvement and participation in crime prevention, treatment of offenders and the
administration of criminal justice. This Executive Order provides the coordination
among government agencies, non-government organizations and peoples
orgnizations specifically under Section 3 which states:

The PPA shall coordinate with other government agencies, non-government

organizations and peoples organizations that are involved in developing programs
related to volunteerism for the purpose of developing programs and attaining programs
impact and synergy. Specifically, the support and cooperation of the Philippine National
Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency, the Department of the Interior and Local
Government, the Philippine National Police Commission, the Liga ng mga Barangay, the
Department of Social Welfare and Development, the Department of Justice, among
others, shall be tapped for the foregoing purpose.
HOW DO THE VPAS DIFFER WITH OTHER VOLUNTEERS?
VPAs differ from other volunteers in that the former perform a highly specialized
supervision service which directly have impact on the behavior of the clients. They serve
as strengths and role models in ushering the reformation and treatment of offenders
who are members of their own communities.
DO VPAS REPLACE THE FULL-TIME STAFF OF THE PPA?
No, the VPAs are not intended as replacement for full-time paid staff. However, their
participation as part of a team under supervision will enhance the rehabilitation prospect
of offenders by helping them in looking for jobs, schooling, training opportunities and
other activities. Their work as volunteers will also give them a more favorable attitude
toward corrections, and they will be in a better position to exert positive influence in
developing favorable community attitudes towards the problems and needs of the
offenders.
WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF VPAS?
Give continued affection to the client, even when specific behavior is
unacceptable and build on whatever good points there are.
Introduce new positive experiences into the clients life.
Be aware of the primary responsibilities to PPA and client.
Respect confidentiality
Honor all commitments and be on time for all appointments
Consult with the PPA staff if in doubt on any matter.
Keep PPA staff informed of any important change in clients situation or of any
significant incident.
Be a good behavior model for the client in action and word.
Participate enthusiastically in volunteer meetings and training sessions.
Believe that human beings can change their behavior patterns since the primary
objective is to help the clients reentry into society.

WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS?

Qualifications

Preferably 35 years old

A reputable member of the community and of good moral character
Preferably a resident of the same community as the client
Preferably with adequate source of income or financially able
Willing to serve without compensation
Able and willing to prepare monthly reports on his supervision activities
Has no criminal record of conviction except former clients who have shown
exemplary behavior and may therefore be considered as role models of their
fellow offenders
With adequate good health

Documents Needed

Duly accomplished VPA application form

Two ID (2 x 2) pictures
Indorsement of and/or certification of Chief Probation and Parole Officer/Officerin-Charge based on background investigation
Recommendation of the Regional Director/Regional Officer-in-Charge

Training

Basic Training Course

Knowledge on the Agency and its programs and services
Team Building
Designed to reinforce the values of cooperation and trust
Specialized Training
Provision of knowledge and skills on Restorative Justice, Therapeutic
Community, Interviewing Skills, Reports Preparation, and Community Resource
Development, among others.

HOW IS THE VPA APPOINTED?

1. Candidate accomplishes the VPA application form
2. Officer conducts background investigation
3. Chief Probation and Parole Officer/Officer-in-Charge endorses application with
required documents to the Regional Office

4. Regional Director/Regional Officer-in-Charge recommends application to the

Administrator
5. Community Service Division reviews and evaluates application form and
attachments, and prepares appointment
6. Administrator signs appointment for a two-year term
7. Community Services Division officially notifies the Regional Directors of VPAs
appointed
8. Secretary of Department of Justice attests appointment
9. VPA takes an Oath of Office administered by the Chief Probation and Parole
Officer/Officer-in-Charge concerned
10. PPA issues VPA ID to be surrendered upon termination or revocation of
appointment, or upon renewal of ID
WHAT IS THE TERM OF SERVICE?
The VPA shall be appointed for two (2) years by the Administrator through the
Community Services Division and the National Screening Committee subject to
renewal/revocation thereafter, upon the recommendation of the Regional Director.
WHAT ARE THE FUNCTIONS OF THE VPA?
1. Work in close coordination and cooperation with the Supervising Officer.
2. Keep all information about the supervisee in strict confidentiality.
3. Maintain an honest recording and monthly reporting of activities to the
Supervising Officer.
4. Devote a substantial and quality time for supervision of clients and perform the
following tasks:
o offer guidance and counseling
o act as job placement facilitator
o implement treatment objectives as provided for in the program
of supervision
o refer to corresponding agencies clients with spiritual, mental,
social, emotional, economic, physical or health needs
o act as resource individual
WHAT ARE THE ROLES OF THE VPA?
The role of the VPA may be classified into two categories:
1. As Direct Supervisor who undertakes the following:
o Supervise a maximum of five (5) clients at any given time

o Work closely with officer-on-case and Chief Probation and Parole

Officer/Officer-in-Charge and discuss treatment plan and status
of clients
o Submit monthly accomplishment reports to officer-on-case or
Chief Probation and Parole Officer/Officer-in-Charge and other
reports as may be required
o Perform such other tasks as may be assigned by the officer-oncase or Chief Probation and Parole Officer/Officer-in-Charge
2. As Resource Individual who acts as:
Resource Speaker on Volunteerism, Restorative Justice, Therapeutic Community and
other topics
Counselor to other clients/people who need help
Donor, sponsor or referring person
Program coordinator of client activities
Mediator, Restorative Justice implementor, Therapeutic Community facilitator
HOW ARE THE VPAS ASSIGNED CASES?
1. Supervising Officer identifies a suitable match of VPA and client.
2. Chief Probation and Parole Officer or Supervising Officer informs the VPA and
the client of the planned assignment of the case to the VPA and explains the
program and the progress.
3. Chief Probation and Parole Officer assigns case to VPA under the charge of a
Supervising Officer by way of an Office Order.
4. Supervising Officer formally introduces the client to the VPA.
5. VPA conducts initial interview to determine the basic information and
circumstances of client.
6. VPA and client formulate tentative plans on how to facilitate and undertake the
supervision process.
7. VPA takes time to study clients records, investigation report and supervision
history, Supervision Treatment Plan, Supervision Case Notes, Payment Plan,
etc., which shall all be treated with strict confidentiality.
8. VPA conducts subsequent supervision interviews and periodic house and
workplace visits, results of which are to be reported to the Supervising Officer
and recorded in the Supervision Case Notes of client.

9. VPA attends and performs allied supervision activities and accomplishes VPA
Monthly Reports
WHAT ARE THE INCENTIVES/AWARDS GIVEN TO THE VPAS?
A VPA may be entitled to receive the following incentives and awards:
1. Plaque of recognition shall be awarded to VPAs who have rendered invaluable
contribution in the rehabilitation of clients.
2. Certificate of Appreciation to VPAs who obtained a Very Satisfactory (VS) Rating for
two (2) consecutive rating periods.
3. VPAs shall be entitled to any support/assistance or benefits (such as discount in
transportation, health and accident insurance) that may be negotiated with participating
agencies or organizations.
MAY THE APPOINTMENTS OF THE VPAS BE RENEWED?
Yes, the VPA appointment may be renewed for the following reasons with consent of the
VPA concerned:
1. The VPA has successfully served/performed the duties and functions as
Volunteer for a period of two (2) years.
2. The VPA has sustained interest in volunteer work and actively participates in the
activities of the Agency.
3. The VPA has obtained a satisfactory performance rating based on the evaluation
of the Chief Probation and Parole Offcier for three consecutive rating periods.
4. The VPA does not violate any of the reasons for the revocation of appointment
WHAT ARE THE STEPS FOR RENEWING THE VPA APPOINTMENT?
1. One month prior to expiration of appointment, the Chief Probation and Parole
Officer or Supervising Officer reviews the performance of the VPA.
2. If satisfactory, Chief Probation and Parole Officer or Supervising Officer seeks
written consent of VPA to continue with volunteer service and option to renew
appointment.
3. Chief Probation and Parole Officer recommends renewal of appointment of VPA
to the Regional Director.
MAY THE APPOINTMENTS OF THE VPAS BE REVOKED?
Yes, the VPA appointment may be revoked for any of the following or similar reasons:

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

Commission of offense
Violation of any function or disclosure or misuse of confidential information
Undue personal interest with the client
Abuse of authority as VPA
Unauthorized use of resources for personal benefit
Extortion
Unwarranted meddling in the affairs/activities of personnel and other VPAs
Physical and mental illness or incapacity

WHAT ARE THE STEPS FOR REVOKING THE VPA APPOINTMENT?

1. Supervising Officer reports to Chief Probation and Parole Officer any information
about possible reason or ground for revocation.
2. Chief Probation and Parole Officer validates report or information and if
confirmed, prepares a report with supporting documents, if necessary.
3. Chief Probation and Parole Officer recommends revocation of appointment of
VPA through the Regional Director
4. Regional Director indorses recommendation of Chief Probation and Parole
Officer to the Administrator.
5. Administrator officially notifies VPA of revocation of appointment and termination
of volunteer services.
HOW IMPORTANT ARE VPA ORGANIZATIONS ?
The establishment of local and national level VPA organizations is of vital importance
for effective promotion, utilization and sustainability of the VPA program. The basic
purpose of establishing a VPA organization is to provide a support group for the
individual VPA members that can cater to their needs such as training, gathering of
resources, etc., as well as those of the clients. The vision is to have an empowered VPA
organization that will eventually be able to function independently and provide for its
own needs.
Most of the activities related to the rehabilitation of clients are done at the unit level. It is
therefore necessary to have a volunteer organization at this level to foster the spirit of
community membership.
LEVEL?
WHAT
ARE THE STEPS TO ESTABLISH VPA ORGANIZATIONS AT THE UNIT
1. If there are at least ten (10) VPAs in one locality (barangay or municipal level), or
field office, the field office may encourage such volunteers to form their

2.
3.
4.

5.

6.

organization at their option. This is in line with the grassroots-level approach of

organizing volunteers.
VPAs may undergo training on Team Building and/or Organizing before
forming an organization.
Field office shall provide guidance and assistance in forming the VPA
organization.
When the VPA organization is formed, all members shall meet and elect officers
composed of at least of the three (3) core positions of Chairman or President,
Secretary, and Treasurer.
Upon election of officers, committees with specialized responsibilities may be
formed, such as:
o Community Resource Committee responsible for generating the
resources needed for the various programs of the organization;
o Training Committee responsible for conducting trainings and
workshops and coordinating with concerned agencies for such
activities;
o Recruitment Committee responsible for disseminating
information and attracting new volunteers;
o Social Services Committee responsible for developing and
facilitating programs for the clients and/or familys basic social
needs;
o Secretariat Committee responsible for documentation and
administrative services; and
o Special Affairs Committee responsible for special projects,
activities, including drafting of constitution and by-laws, policies,
and rules and regulations governing their organization.
If the VPA organization wishes to formalize its independent legal nature to
acquire juridical personality, it may register with the Securities and Exchange
Commission (SEC) as a non-profit, non-stock organization with the following
suggested objectives:
o Offer advice, upon request of the PPA, in developing constructive
policies, standards, procedures, and programs as well as on
matters relating to the improvement of volunteerism methods
and to the solution of problems confronting the VPA program;
o Promote among the members through assembly, study and
discussion, uniform and consistent interpretation and application
of volunteerism policies and practices;
o Serve as a clearing house of information among members and
between members and the PPA, and provide a system of
feedback between the community and the PPA;
o Advocate the use of methods of volunteerism and resources that
will contribute most to good governance;

o Assume an active role in crime prevention and community

relations;
o Provide assistance and facilitate various VPA activities that will
advance the aims and objectives of volunteerism; and
o Organize activities for the continuous formation of VPAs and
recommend mechanisms for selection and awarding of
outstanding VPAs.
The field office shall have minimum supervision on this matter; however, it may help
facilitate the accomplishment of the registration requirements and other basic
registration procedures. The VPA organization may also seek accreditation with the
Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA), subject to its
requirements.
WHAT IS THE NATIONAL FEDERATION OF VPA ORGANIZATIONS?
The national federation of VPA organizations will be instituted as an umbrella
organization for the unit volunteer organizations and shall act as the National
Organization of VPAs. It acts as support group for the unit organizations in terms of
resource generation and training for VPAs. An interim board shall be constituted to
comprise the national federation of VPA organizations. It shall act as governing body of
the unit organizations. Initially, PPA shall take the lead in the recruitment of popular,
reputable, and influential personalities as catalysts to become members of the interim
board. The objective is to have respected and charismatic leaders who can lend
prestige, color and status to the organization. The members of the interim board shall
continue to hold office until such time that the unit organizations are in place, and a new
set of officers from among the VPA organizations are elected.
On January 18, 2007, the National Federation of VPA Association was officially
organized in University Hotel, UP Diliman Campus. VPA Gideon Ike Patricio of Region
VI was elected president along with Cesar L. Villanueva of Region IV as Executive Vice
President, Jovito A. Jolo, Sr. of Region IV as Vice President for Luzon, Jacinto V. Torres
of Region VI as Vice President for Visayas, Olivita A. Alvaro of Region XI as Vice
President for Mindanao, Brigid S. Tan of Region VI as Executive Secretary, Virginia M.
Peralta of Region IV as Assistant Secretary, Rodolfo P. Serrano of Region VIII as
Treasurer, Ma. Linda A. Alcid of Caraga as Assistant Treasurer, Benjamin G. Leano of
Region IV as Auditor, Allan A. Santillan of Region V as Assistant Auditor, Jovencita C.
Balut of Region II as Public Information Officer of Luzon, Rodrigo B. Miranda of Region
VII as Public Information Officer of Visayas, Edgar G. Sola of Region XI as Public

Information Officer of Mindanao, and Timoteo M. Olaer of Region XI as Business

Manager.