MANILA – The city government of Manila on Thursday signed an agreement with different sectors for a drug-free city and to extend help for drug dependents.
Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna said the signatories of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) will play a major role in fighting illegal drugs.
The signatories include the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the National Center for Mental Health, Mega Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Center, Caritas Manila, La Salle Greenhills, and the Manila Anti-Drug Abuse.
The MOA signing coincides with the observance of the “Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Week” under Presidential Proclamation No. 124 s. 2001.
Lacuna said the partnership with various stakeholders aims to intensify the government services for the persons who use drugs (PWUDs).
“Ikinagagalak namin dito sa Lungsod ng Maynila na maging katuwang kayo sa patuloy nating kampanya kontra sa illegal na droga, lalong-lalo na sa larangan ng Treatment and Rehabilitation (The City of Manila is happy to be your partner for the intensified campaign against illegal drugs, especially in the treatment and rehabilitation),” she said.
Lacuna cited the role of the Manila Anti-Drug Abuse Office (MADAO), through which the city provides free rehabilitation for PWUDs categorized as “moderate risk” via a community-based drug rehabilitation program.
She said “severe dependence” on illegal drugs may get treatment free of charge through the signed MOA.
The Caritas Manila, through its “Isang Paglalakbay o Sanlakbay Program”, will provide a faith-based approach to rehabilitation for PWUDs.
On the other hand, La Salle Greenhills and TESDA are part of the free alternative learning system (ALS) program and Technical-Vocational Training for Manilans who are also into drug problems.
The National Center for Mental Health will provide free assistance to those who have mental issues and need medical help owing to illegal drug use. (PNA/ Ferdinand Patinio)