54 under drug rehab in Hamtic

SAN JOSE, Antique – Fifty- four drug surrenderees in Hamtic town have started their community-based rehabilitation ( CBR).

Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency ( PDEA) assistant regional director Levi Ortiz congratulated the drug surrenderees for taking the “bold chance” to change themselves.

“The use of illegal drugs really has no happy ending,” Levi stressed.

The CBR — the first in the province — was launched in

Hamtic on Tuesday. It will last 26 days.

“Illegal drugs will bring short-lived enjoyment or hype ,” said the drug enforcement official. “But soon the person will really suffer.”

The CBR is a joint project of the PDEA, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, and the Police Regional Office 6.

To show support, Gov. Rhodora J. Cadiao turned over a computer set to be used during the 26- day program.

Thenon government organization National Auxiliary Chaplaincy Philippines is facilitating the rehabilitation program.

Those who had themselves subjected to the CBR have “mild to moderate” addiction, according to the organization chaplain Maria Assumpta Flores.

Aside from listening to lectures, the surrenderees will also write a journal of their activities and undergo psychological test, Flores said. (