Capitol uses reward system to fight illegal drug problem

CEBU, Philippines - While series of random drug test has been conducted in the province, Cebu Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Commission assured that intervention programs are being undertaken for those employees tested positive of drug use.

Joey Herrera, CPADAC executive director, made it clear that the aim of the pro-vince’s anti-drug campaign is not merely weeding out drug users in the government but to help them out by providing psychosocial interventions like counseling.

“Di lang basta i-suspend lang. There should also be intervention. We refer them to medical practitioners nga naay background sa aftercare programs,” he told reporters du-ring a Kapistorya forum on Friday organized by the Provincial Information Office.

In the series of drug test at the Capitol that started last year, there were already 15 Capitol employees tested positive of drug use. Capitol Information Officer Ethel Natera said these employees were afforded “due process.”

The Capitol is also eyeing at establishing rehabilitation center in each le-gislative district in the province. Herrera said the province is now coordinating with the Department of Health for the plan, as well as the budget needed for the construction and operation of the facilities.

During the forum, CPADAC presented its “Just Say No Program” which is patterned after “Our Sustainable Cebu Program” which recognizes well-performing local government units in the crusade against illegal drugs by giving cash rewards and incentives.

The program, in partnership with the LGUs and Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc., was launched last month in Talisay City. A total of P2 million was earmarked for the program this year. Board Member Ivy Durano-Meca, who co-chairs the CPADAC, explained that the program aims to build safe and drug-free community and strengthen anti-drug campaigns in the grassroots level. This will also involve the communities in helping reduce or eradicate drugs.

The program also provides score card system for the LGUs’ performance. The LGU will be evaluated using the following criteria: The establishment of their local drug abuse council, as mandated by the Department of Interior and Local Government; policies and legislative measures crafted against illegal drugs; presence or absence of drug dens and drug pushers, and the likes, in the area and number of cases filed against them; and social and support activities such as livelihood programs implemented in the schools, among others.

The provincial evaluation team will be composed of the representatives from CPADAC, DILG, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Department of Education, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, and Cebu Provincial Prosecutor’s Office. (FREEMAN)