Go pushes holistic approach to drug woes

SEN. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go has renewed his call for a holistic approach in solving the country’s illegal drug problems.

“We all know that one of the advocacies of the past administration was the maintenance of peace and order in our country. And we thank the Philippine National Police, DDB, PDEA, NBI and DILG. The success of this was made possible because of your help and work,” said Go during the public hearing of the Senate Committee on Public Order on Tuesday, referring to the Dangerous Drugs Board, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, National Bureau of Investigation, and Department of the Interior and Local Government.

The committee was deliberating on Senate Bill 428 that Go filed whose objective is to establish a Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Center in every province throughout the country.

“Former president Rodrigo Duterte was passionate in the fight against illegal drugs, criminality and corruption, particularly the fight against illegal drugs because this is destroying families. The campaign was intense and resulted in the decrease of criminality during the time of President Duterte,” the senator said.

Under the bill, drug rehabilitation centers will also offer after-care, follow-up and social reintegration services to assist patients adjusting to community life after their release.

“Apart from the fight for the nation’s safety and security against the menace of illegal drugs, attention must be directed toward the rehabilitation and recovery of its victims,” Go said.

“As we continue to intensify our campaign against corruption, criminality and illegal drugs, efforts to protect the welfare of the victims must be also equally prioritized. Through the establishment of Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Centers, we can intensify our efforts in helping our fellow Filipinos take back their lives from the dark grip of dangerous drugs,” he added.

Go said several drug rehabilitation centers were established under Duterte, including those in Nueva Ecija, Las Piñas.