Drug dependents in Argao finish rehab

CEBU, Philippines — As they begin a new life away from drugs, more than 500 former drug abuse victims will join a symbolic lighting of roadside torches in the southern town of Argao this Tuesday.

Dubbed as “Lakang sa Kahayag,” the activity is part of the Kasaulugan sa Argao 2017 festivities.

It also marks the end of the drug abuse victims’ rehabilitation under the Wholestic Intervention Nurturing Narcotics Education Resources and Sustainability (WINNERS) program.

In a statement, Argao Mayor Stanley Caminero said he implemented the program in his town with the help of Bartel Aballe, who is a consultant of community-based drug treatment and rehabilitation program in San Remigio town, northern Cebu.

“This is in response to the call of President Rodrigo Duterte to address the problem of drug addiction in every town and barangay,” Caminero said.

The program is also part of the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council project spearheaded by the Cebu Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Office (CPADAO).

Last Tuesday, a culminating activity was held for stakeholders of Doers of Change, Argao’s 24-week program in which drug users and peddlers who had surrendered were monitored and regularly tested for drug use.

Kasaulugan sa Argao 2017 is the town’s 11-day fiesta celebration in honor of its patron, Saint Michael the Archangel.

Among the festivities’ highlights is the showcase of the town’s hand-woven fabric and hablon designed by Cebu-based designer Dexter Alazas.

The 54 Binibining Cebu candidates showcased the designs in a program last night. —/JMD (FREEMAN)