Victorias City recently launched its PAG-AMLIG, a 3-month voluntary community-based outpatient program for drug dependents willing to undergo rehabilitation.

Victorias Mayor Francis Frederick Palanca spearheads the program with the support of Cong. Alfredo Benitez and the assistance of the Victorias PNP. Three clusters of barangays simultaneously kicked off rehab activities last October 18, 2016.

A pool of trained volunteer facilitators from various government agencies and private organizations will run the program. Victorias has reported a total of 495 drug surrenderees. City Administrator Dino Acuña is the PAG-AMLIG Core Group Moderator.

Murcia Mayor Andrew Montelibano has reported that 44 drug dependents in his town has also started a close-door 5-day initial assessment and rehabilitation session at the Green Pasture’s Retreat House in Baragay Sta., Cruz.

Last August, an 8-week out-patient rehab program was piloted in Silay City as an off-shoot of discussions between Cong. Benitez and Negros Oriental 3rd District Representative Arnie Teves. Former 3rd District Board Member Patrick Lacson who assisted the program management with the support of Silay Mayor Mark Golez, reported that 49 registered as participants. The sessions concluded last October 7 with only 14 completing requirements. Lessons from the set-backs experienced in the pilot run will serve as basis for improving and strengthening the program, Lacson also reported.

Cong. Benitez, in his state-of-the-district report last October 13, 2016 before provincial, local government and barangay officials and the local media, said that among his priority plans is the putting up of a drug rehabilitation center in Silay City, as it is centrally located in the Metro Third area.*