Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has filed two bills aimed at strengthening the government’s campaign against illegal drugs through a holistic approach combining enforcement, rehabilitation, and reintegration.
Senate Bill No. 665, or the proposed Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Centers Act, seeks to establish a drug rehabilitation center in every region of the Philippines under the Department of Health. The centers will provide care, treatment, and support to drug dependents, promote their psychological and social stability, and facilitate their reintegration into society.
“These drug dependents can be considered as prey of opportunists, drug criminals and syndicates. They should also be treated as victims in dire need of medical, psychological, and spiritual help, with a chance of being successfully reintegrated into society as a healthy and productive citizen,” Go explained, emphasizing that his proposal complements a tough anti-drug campaign with an equally determined rehabilitation program.
The senator cited 2024 Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency data showing P21.43 billion worth of illegal drugs seized and more than 51,000 arrests, including minors and high-value targets, highlighting the need for nationwide rehabilitation infrastructure.
Senate Bill No. 683, or the Simplified Drug Rehabilitation Admission Process Act, seeks to amend the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 by simplifying the process for voluntary admission to rehabilitation centers. Under current law, dependents must secure a court order before admission, a requirement Go says discourages many from seeking help.
“Huwag na dapat pahirapan ang mga nais magparehab. Bigyan dapat sila ng oportunidad at mas madaling proseso na magbagong buhay upang maging produktibong miyembro ng pamilya at ng lipunan,” Go explained earlier.
The bill allows applications for voluntary confinement to be filed directly with the Dangerous Drugs Board, removing the need for judicial proceedings. The board, with assistance from DOH-accredited physicians, will evaluate applications and designate treatment facilities. It also includes due process safeguards, such as the right to appeal decisions to the Court of Appeals.
Go said the two measures together promote a balanced anti-drug strategy that focuses on both enforcement and compassion.
“Bukod sa krimen, may masamang epekto rin ang droga sa kalusugan lalo na sa mental health. Nais nating makabuo ng mga batas para maiwasan ang paglaganap nito at mabigyan ng pagkakataon ang mga nalulong sa droga na magbagong buhay,” Go previously stated, framing both SBN 665 and SBN 683 as integral parts of a humane, holistic national policy.