Alicia Municipality Launches New Chapter in Anti-Drug Campaign
The municipality of Alicia in Zamboanga Sibugay took a significant step in its fight against illegal drugs by officially opening the Balay Silangan Reformation Center on Wednesday, November 26. This new facility, located in Barangay Poblacion, marks a pivotal shift towards a more compassionate and comprehensive approach to the drug problem, focusing on rehabilitation and community reintegration.
Holistic Approach to Healing and Transformation
The municipal government designed the Balay Silangan facility to provide a complete support system for individuals who have voluntarily surrendered. The program's core components include:
- Values formation and spiritual guidance
- Practical livelihood skills training
- Initiatives for smooth community reintegration
Strong Support from Law Enforcement and Local Government
Bryan Babang, the Regional Director of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Zamboanga Peninsula, expressed his full support for the center. In his speech, he emphasized that the opening aligns perfectly with PDEA's mandate, which combines law enforcement with reformation programs to create safer and drug-free communities.
Director Babang personally commended Mayor Ardin Musa for his proactive leadership and commitment to implementing programs that prioritize healing and personal transformation over pure punishment. He assured that PDEA would provide continued technical support, monitoring, and advocacy assistance to ensure the program's long-term effectiveness and sustainability.
He concluded by stressing that true and lasting progress in the anti-drug campaign comes from a balanced combination of enforcement, rehabilitation, reformation, and active community engagement.
