Home of Transformation: Valenzuela LGU opens ‘Balai Banyuhay’ treatment, rehab center
The Valenzuela City government inaugurated the city’s Drug Rehabilitation and Treatment Center in Barangay Punturin, Valenzuela City, on Thursday, March 21.
The Balai Banyuhay is the first drug rehabilitation and treatment facility in the city.
The “Balai Banyuhay” was based on the words “balai” which means home, while “banyuhay” means “bagong anyo ng buhay” or transformation.
In accordance with City Ordinance No. 603 S. 2019, which established Balai Banyuhay, Action Officer of the Valenzuela Anti-drug Abuse Council (VADAC) and city’s Representative Atty. Walter Magnum “Bimbo” Dela Cruz, stated that the center should serve as a symbol of new hope and new life for those affected by drug addiction.
According to the city’s public information office, the facility received an accreditation from the Department of Health (DOH) last February 13, 2023, as a free-standing facility with residential and outpatient services.
It added that the facility has a 72bed capacity for in-patients.
The facility will offer medical services such as detoxification treatment, medical consultation and management, check-ups on drug dependency and mental status of the residents.
It also offers psycho-social and family counseling and screenings.
The facility will also conduct various programs such as therapeutic community modality program, aftercare, education, livelihood, spiritual, sports, and family programs.
The city government also announced that the facility is now accepting patients endorsed by the neighboring cities in Bulacan.
According to Valenzuela City Mayor Weslie “Wes” Gatchalian, Balai Banyuhay is not merely a center for treatment and rehabilitation but also a beacon of hope. He added that they intend to share 40 percent of the capacity of Balai Banyuhay with neighboring cities.