Community-based drug rehab program institutionalization deferred

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu Provincial Board (PB) has deferred on second reading the proposed ordinance institutionalizing a community-based treatment (CBT) program for drug surrenderers.

The PB cited three grounds for the deferment. These were to give time for the other board members to read the contents of the proposal; to give the proponents time to submit the missing annexes; and to give the proponents the chance to improve the proposed ordinance.

The deferred measure was sponsored by ex-officio Board Member Earl Tidy Oyas.

During Monday's regular session, PB Majority Floor Leader Jude Thaddeus Sybico raised concern over the measure's Section 32 (liabilities), which seeks to impose administrative and criminal sanctions against those who cannot meet with certain CBT conditions.

He said PB is not allowed to impose administrative and criminal sanctions and fees over P5,000, citing stipulations provided for under the Local Government Code.  He then moved for the deletion of the said section, which Oyas agreed to.

Under the proposed measure, the program is set once a week for six consecutive months. Its operational expenses will be funded by the respective local government units.  A drug surrenderer, on the other hand, is given the prerogative to avail of the program.

A waiver, which stipulates the conditions-biometrics, pledge to reform, and reporting of illegal drug activities, among others, will be signed by those who will join the program.

According to the Cebu Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Office (CPADAO), the measure would serve as a framework for the program. (FREEMAN)