Bong Go pushes for bill establishing rehab centers nationwide

Sen. Bong Go renewed his call for a more holistic approach to fighting illegal drugs in the country and helping substance abuse victims to get back on their feet through better rehabilitation programs by the government.

In his manifestation during the public hearing of the Senate Committee on Public Order on Tuesday, 22 November, Go highlighted how former president Rodrigo Duterte's war against illegal drugs has been a success in addressing criminality and corruption.

"Alam naman po natin na isa sa adbokasiya ng nakaraang administrasyon ang pag-maintain po ng peace and order sa ating bansa. At maraming salamat po sa Philippine National Police, DDB, PDEA, NBI, at sa DILG, sa lahat. Hindi po magiging successful ito kung hindi dahil sa inyong tulong at trabaho," noted Go.

"Former president Rodrigo Duterte was passionate in the fight against illegal drugs, criminality and corruption. Partikular na dito ang laban kontra ilegal na droga dahil nakakasira po ito ng pamilya. Naging masidhi po ang kampanya kaya naman bumaba na ang kriminalidad noong panahon ni pangulong Duterte. Mahalaga na hindi masayang ang ating nasimulan at maipagpatuloy ang pagsugpo sa mga nasa likod ng ilegal na droga para masolusyunan din ang problema sa kriminalidad at katiwalian," he emphasized.

For this reason, the Senate Committee tackled Go's filed Senate Bill No. 428 which shall establish a Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Center in every province throughout the country. Through the proposed measure, the centers will provide care, treatment, and accommodation to drug dependents.

These drug rehabilitation centers will also offer after-care, follow-up and social reintegration services to assist their patients in adjusting to community life after their release.

"Apart from the fight for the nation's safety and security against the menace of illegal drugs, attention must be directed towards the rehabilitation and recovery of its victims," Go underscored.

"Through the establishment of Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Centers, we can intensify our efforts in helping our fellow Filipinos take back their lives from the dark grip of dangerous drugs," he added.