Capitol and police officials listen as a non-government resource person gives a primer on the drug situation in the province.
THE provincial government is partnering with non-government organizations in setting up intervention programs for self-confessed drug users and pushers.
During a meeting at the Capitol, members of the Cebu Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Office (CPADAO) said the province is coordinating with groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and Roads and Bridges to Recovery to touch base with drug users and pushers in the barangay level.
“What the police can do is to tell the surrenderees that there are groups that are with them. At least we can start with something,” Dr. Fareda Flores, managing director of Roads and Bridges to Recovery, said.
CPADAO Director Ivy Meca said reorienting self-confessed drug users and pushers is the first step towards reforming them.
“Recovery is possible, and we have to be together in this,” Flores said.
CPADAO is also working with organizations such as House of Hope in reforming these erstwhile users and pushers.
Cebu Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale said she will ask for funding to sponsor these rehabilitation programs.
Chief Supt. Noli Taliño, Police Regional Office (PRO-7) chief, said the surrenderees under Oplan TokHang have been profiled for monitoring prior to their treatment and rehabilitation.
Provincial Social Welfare Officer Marivic Garce said they have the funds and personnel to provide training and livelihood for these reforming drug users and pushers./USJ-R Intern Dafne Wenceslao