SILG Abalos: Drug-free work places program next
AFTER DRUG-FREE TOWNS, CITIES
IN addition to the BIDA program, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) will push for the program establishing drug-free work places in every locality to finally end the drug problem in the country.
BIDA, part of the whole nation approach of the current administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stands for “Buhay ay Ingatan, Droga Ayawan”.
In a press conference at CSI Stadia shortly after the BIDA Fun Run on April 30, Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., said the program acknowledging drug-free work places will change the complexion of the war on drugs.
Imagine if all big shopping malls, such as Robinson’s and SM, hospitals, government and private offices as well as factories are declared drug-free work places, the problem on illegal drugs will be greatly minimized, said Secretary Abalos.
He said in order to achieve this, all establishments shall conduct random drug testing on all their employees and all those found positive of illegal drugs will be reprimanded or dismissed and recommended for immediate rehabilitation while drug testing will be made mandatory for new workers.
Abalos said the program identify workers taking illegal drugs in various offices and establishments in every locality in the Philippines.
While there are now hospitals and establishments declared as 100 percent drug-free work places, Abalos said the project has yet to be launched simultaneously throughout the country on May 25 this year.
Comparing the drug problem in the country to a bad tree, Abalos said that unless the tree is uprooted and its roots cut and destroyed, its branches which are symbolized by drug pushers will grow some more branches and tentacles.
He said BIDA seeks to strengthen law enforcement and at the same time works for demand reduction, making illegal drugs inaccessible to all.
Secretary Abalos called on LGU Dagupan to begin establishing drug-free work places in the city, starting from the city hall, to ensure that all its workers are cleared of illegal drugs.
The DILG secretary was very elated upon seeing the big number of young people, particularly pupils and students, joining the BIDA Fun Run.
He admitted that as 61-year old, he runs twice a week. (Leonardo Micua)
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