PDL turned rescuer: From incarceration to saving lives
By NiΓ±a Jonalyn Gambe-Diamante
Garry Nuzon, an emergency responder of the Search and Rescue Agusan del Sur (SARAS) has shown how a dark chapter can be rewritten into a story of hope—not just for himself, but for the many lives he has helped save.
At just 24 years old, Nuzon faced the consequences of his actions and was detained in the provincial correctional facility in Agusan del Sur, being sentenced to nine years imprisonment.
Human as he is, the thought of being deprived of his freedom was like a nightmare in real life. Yet, within the walls of confinement, a new narrative began to unfold—one of resilience, redemption, and renewed purpose.
“Kaniadto, grabe ko ka-badlongon, walay respeto sa isig ka ingon. Layo kaayo ko sa Ginoo, masupilon sa ginikanan, ug walay Batasan (Before, I was very mischievous, had no respect for others, distant from God, disobedient to my parents, and had lacked good manners),” said Nuzon.
He narrated how his character before his incarceration took a 360-degree turn for the better as he found his passion and calling—not to be served, but to be of service.
“Nautro jud ang tanan karon labi na nga niduol ko sa atong labing makagagahum. Nabag-o akong kinaiya, dili na ko dali masuko, nakatabang na ko sa akong ginikanan, ug ako matahuron na (Everything changed, especially when I turned back to our Almighty God. My attitude improved—I’m no longer quick to anger, I can now support my parents, and I’ve learned to be respectful),” he shared with optimism.
Nuzon also expressed his immense gratitude to the Search and Rescue Agusan del Sur (SARAS) for giving him the opportunity to change the course of his life. From someone once focused solely on himself, he has become a public servant willing to risk his life for others.
He served SARAS as a volunteer rescuer in 2023, where his work did not go unnoticed. Because of the dedication and passion that he puts into his work, he was eventually absorbed by their office and was hired as a job order personnel.
Maricel Narciso, head of operations and warning division of SARAS, recalled how she first had no idea that Nuzon was a former PDL, and how amazed she was with the level of commitment that he exhibited in terms of his work as a rescuer.
“He was someone you can always rely on. Based on my observation, no matter where we deploy him and at any given time—even with short notice—he always delivers. He never complained, instead, he showed his willingness to help both the victims and his fellow rescuers,” Narciso recollected.
According to her, Nuzon’s story is one of renewed faith in humanity—a reminder that past mistakes do not define a person’s entire life. It speaks to the power of redemption and the courage it takes to change course. His journey proves that even the most broken paths can lead to something meaningful.
Besides his career as a full-time rescuer, Nuzon returned to the very facility he once called home—this time as a guest speaker at the recent Alternative Learning System (ALS) graduation for PDLs. He delivered a powerful message of hope, encouraging the graduates to believe in their ability to transform their lives and become a positive force for those around them. (NJGD/PIA Agusan del Sur)
