The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in Bicol (PDEA-5) has recently inaugurated its latest Balay Silangan Reformation Center in Pio Duran, Albay. This new facility, now the 13th operational Balay Silangan center in the province, aims to provide former drug users and peddlers with an opportunity to rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society.
A Transformative Space for Rehabilitation
The newly established center in Pio Duran is designed to accommodate three to six clients simultaneously, offering them a structured environment for rehabilitation. Carlo Fernandez III, the PDEA-Bicol information officer, highlighted the center's role in facilitating meaningful change for its clients. "The facility serves as a crucial lifeline for individuals seeking a second chance," Fernandez stated. The center will not only provide counseling and support but also include skills training programs in collaboration with the Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and other partners. This training aims to equip clients with practical skills that will aid them in their post-rehabilitation lives.
Ongoing Efforts to Expand Reformation Services
PDEA-Bicol is committed to expanding its reformation services throughout the region. The agency is actively encouraging local government units (LGUs) to establish additional Balay Silangan centers as part of the criteria for being declared drug-cleared. According to Fernandez, there are still five LGUs in Albay awaiting the establishment of their own facilities. "We are pushing for these centers to ensure comprehensive support for all areas," he noted. The continued expansion of these centers is seen as essential for promoting community safety and fostering healthier, drug-free environments across the region.
