ILOILO CITY , Philippines — The number of drug dependents who have surrendered to authorities in Iloilo City has reached over 2,000. This number is expected to rise through the sustained Oplan Tokhang operations of the Philippine National Police.
Following the increase in number of drug surrenders is the shortage of rehabilitation centers in the city.
There are only two drug rehabilitation centers in the city, and one of these is owned by a private group.
The expansion of the provincial rehabilitation center has not been completed yet due to insufficient funds.
That is why the Iloilo City government is constructing drop-in rehabilitation centers that will serve as temporary shelter for drug users and pushers who have surrendered.
One gym in every district shall be converted into a drop-in center.
“Let us put an end to illegal drugs. And how are we going to do that? This will happen if the 180 barangays in Iloilo City will eradicate illegal drugs,” said Iloilo City mayor, Jed Patrick Mabilog.
Every drug treatment and rehabilitation team in the seven districts will be composed of a psychiatrist, nurse, peer facilitator, clerk or utility personnel and police officers who have undergone a two-week training.
The drug surrenderers will undergo random drug testing weekly, and will be given vitamins B and C for six months. Only mild to moderate cases will be accommodated.
Meanwhile, the members of the barangay anti-drug abuse council took an oath to bring drug dependents to the temporary rehabilitation centers.
(Lalaine Moreno / UNTV News and Rescue)
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