18 drug reformists graduate from Balay Silangan

BACOLOD City – The Balay Silangan reformation center held its closing ceremony for 18 drug reformists at the New Government Center lobby here last Dec 20, 2022.

The graduates are the first batch catered in a month-long reformation and intervention program inside the said center since Nov 22.

On behalf of Bacolod Mayor Albee Benitez, Councilor Pao Sy hailed the 2022 graduates and encouraged them to become an inspiration to other future drug reformists.

“Don’t look back, move forward,” she emphasized.

The families of former drug offenders also shared the accomplishment during the event.

A community-based aftercare rehabilitation program will be executed by the Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD) and Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (BADAC), all under the supervision of the City Anti-Drug Abuse Council.

The second batch of beneficiaries is expected in the earlier months of 2023.

Councilor Simple Distrito, Balay Silangan Administrator Primitivo Tabujara Jr., City Administrator Atty. Pacifico Maghari III and other officials attended the event.

Officers from concerned sectors have also been recognized for their efforts in strengthening and sustaining the program which includes a family drug abuse prevention program for the drug reformists and their families.