DAVAO CITY — Thirty-six (36) former drug users have graduated from Davao Oriental’s reformation center called ‘Balay Silingan’ in Mati City.
The 36 Persons Who Used Drugs (PWUDs) who availed of the plea bargaining agreement completed their six months rehabilitation at the Balay Silangan: Bagong Bahay para sa Bagong Buhay graduate in a ceremony last Thursday, July 28.
Each graduate received their certificate.
While inside the reformatory center, they underwent comprehensive treatment and rehabilitation which include counseling, psychological, spiritual, physical activities, moral recovery, and values formation.
They were also provided education through the Department of Education’s Alternative Learning System and acquired competencies from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. (TESDA) which include training in various livelihood and employment opportunities.
Allan, a graduate said staying at the center changed his direction in life “I realized that there’s a need for me to prioritize myself aside from court orders and criminal charges”.
While Alex said he realized that he has been wayward and wants to forget his “dark past and I see the light” which according to him will guide him as he walks out of the center. He thanked the government for giving him the opportunity to find himself and define his future.
Art Benjie Bulaong, the Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council Action Officer and Provincial Administrator said that despite the limited resources, the provincial government continuously provide opportunities for former drug users when it established the center,
Provincial Governor Nelson Dayanghirang put up the Balay Silangan to help drug-abuse patients rebuild their lives.
Bulaong emphasized “This graduation ceremony and your certificates of completion are the testaments of your sincerity and commitment to change. Thank you for letting us help you rebuild your lives and for helping us build a better society,” said Mr. Bulaong.
Dangerous Drugs Board Chairman Secretary Catalino S. Cuy in a virtual message congratulated the graduate for their determination to free themselves from the addiction of illegal drugs and by becoming better versions of themselves.
“I would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to the families, relatives, and friends of our graduates. Your love and support are a big factor in their success today. Thank you for being their light in this life-changing journey,” Cuy said.
The Balay Silangan, since its establishment in 2018, has served as a reformation center to transform drug offenders into self-sufficient and law-abiding members of the society.-Newsline.ph with PR
