More drug surrenderers undergo ‘healing’ process

LAOAG CITY— Illegal drug users in the province are now slowly finding their way back home as several government interventions are being undertaken to help them.

In Badoc town for example, a community-based rehabilitation program just kicked in to reach out to all drug surrenderers.

Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Lilian Rin said Friday the PSWDO is leading the reintegration and transformation of recovering drug dependents.

Under the community-based rehabilitation program, drug surrenderers shall complete 13 modules. During the course of the program, the participants are constantly reminded of making a clean living and doing away with drugs.

Of the total 6, 277 individuals who surrendered to the Philippine National Police (PNP) as of September 30, 2017, the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) recorded a total of 4,773 persons who already completed their CBRP training.

In support of the program, the Diocese of Laoag and other religious groups here provide psycho spiritual guidance to former drug dependents.

Of the 21 towns and two cities of Ilocos Norte, the PNP reported at least 430 out of the 513 drug affected barangays are already cleared.

A drug affected barangay means there is an identified drug user or pusher.