Balay Silangan releases 600 drug reformists in Region 1
SOME 600 drug offenders, more than 200 from Pangasinan, already graduated from the one-month in-house drug rehabilitation under the auspices of Balay Silangan Reformation Center in Region 1.
Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Director Joel Plaza said most of the drug offenders released by the Balay Silangan from 48 centers, returned to their families as reformed individuals and now live a happy life without drugs with their respective families.
Speaking to newsmen at the sideline of the opening of the Balay Silangan in Dagupan City, the 12th such facility in Pangasinan, Plaza is optimistic that because of the success of Balay Silangan in transforming the lives of those previously involved in illegal drugs, the remaining local governments in Region 1 are urged to put up their respective facilities this year.
While there are a few drug offenders who relapsed after undergoing the one-month in-house rehabilitation, Plaza said, the effectiveness of the program is measured by far bigger number of individuals whose lives were transformed because of the Balay Silangan.
Initiated by PDEA and covered by a resolution of the Dangerous Drugs Board mandating all LGUs to put up the facility, the Balay Silangan is necessary for the success of the anti-drug campaign of the government, Plaza said.
With more than 600 former drug offenders already released by the different Balay Silangan Reformation Centers, the communities in Region 1 have become more peaceful, he added.
Citing the newly opened Balay Silangan in Dagupan whose first batch of clients are 11 identified drug pushers from different barangays, Plaza said the lesser the number of participants, the easier for them to be managed.
Operated solely by LGU Dagupan with interventions from PDEA and other government line agencies, it was opened despite little support from the opposition that compose the majority in the Sangguniang Panlungsod.
Plaza said the Balay Silangan is supported by PDEA, DILG, PNP, DSWD, Department of Health and Technical Education Skills and Development Authority, religious and socio-civic groups. (Ahikam Pasion)
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