Quezon City’s holistic approach to drug problem yields results – Belmonte

MANILA, Philippines — Implementing a holistic approach in addressing the problem of illegal drugs has reaped positive results for the Quezon City government, according to Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte.

Speaking at a conference organized by the International Society of Substance Use Professionals yesterday, Belmonte said the joint efforts by the city government and law enforcement agencies have led to the downgrading of various barangays in terms of drug prevalence.

“Data from the Quezon City Police District indicate that our collective efforts have led to a considerable decrease in drug-related crimes in QC and the downgrading of our villages to lower levels of affectations,” the vice mayor said.

She said 19 barangays have been declared drug-free, while those identified as “seriously affected” dropped from 50 to seven this year.

Belmonte also noted the increasing number of drug dependents who have submitted themselves for rehabilitation and treatment and have been given another opportunity to lead a productive life.

She said the city’s anti-drug abuse advisory council has initiated programs that focus on prevention, law enforcement, rehabilitation sustainability to ensure that those who will be treated will not return to using illegal drugs.

“Our approach in addressing this very serious public health and social problem has always been holistic,” she said, citing partnerships with law enforcement, academe, judiciary, the health sector and other policymakers and professionals.

“Our common end goal remains the saving of lives; the providing of second, third or even fourth chances; and the preservation of the Filipino family and of course the preservation of peace of our land,” Belmonte added.

Among prevention programs implemented in city include age-appropriate education among school children, as well as for those in vulnerable communities.

More than 600 drug dependents who surrendered since last year have already finished their respective community-based rehabilitation programs and are ready to be re-integrated to the society, the vice mayor said.