KIANGAN, Ifugao – Top officials of the Department of Social Welfare and Development encouraged recovering drug personalities in the province to aim high in life.
“Continue to prove to the world and to yourselves that you are now responsible citizens of the community,” said DSWD Sec. Rolando Bautista in his message read by Asec. Joseline Niwane during the 5th moving-up ceremony of recovering drug personalities.
Twenty-nine campers have completed the activities under the six months rehabilitation program at the Ifugao Reflection Camp, Tiger Hill, Kiangan. They are now eligible to avail of the 18-months aftercare program. Their moving up was witnessed by their families, local anti-drug abuse councils and other officials.
“You have proven that a past experience cannot hinder one’s ability to change. As you venture in the next step of the process, remember the people who have helped and supported you in every step for when the time comes, it’s your turn to give back to your friends, family, community and the country,” he said.
Bautista also underscored the role of every stakeholder for the efficient and effective implementation of government programs and services for the rehabilitation of recovering drug personalities.
“Being able to recover, regain control and change for the better is a collaborative effort of the state, community and of oneself. The harmonization of rehabilitation and reintegration programs can only be fully realized with the full support of everyone involved,” he said.
He said the DSWD has adopted the community-based rehabilitation program of the province in the national scale referred to as “Yakap Bayan.”
“Seeing the promising effects it has brought about, I highly encourage other lower government units to apply the Yakap Bayan in their respective communities and be our ally in transforming lives again,” Bautista said.
Asec. Jose Antonio Hernandez also urged the recovering drug personalities to aim high for their family, community and the next generation.
“The world is watching us, be the spear. Our province has invested in you, it is time to give back,” Hernandez said.
He also commended the province of Ifugao for the initiative and hopes that it will continue in giving a “maagap at mapagkalingang serbisyo sa mamamayan.”
The Ifugao Reflection Camp recorded a total of 605 drug personalities with 428 enrolled in the community-based rehabilitation program with 332 successfully completing the program and four recovering drug personalities were able to complete the 18-months aftercare program. – Marcelo B. Lihwagon
April 25, 2024
