DOH-7 Cites Need for Drug Rehab Centers in Cebu as More Drug Dependents Surrender

A Department of Health (DOH) Region 7 official has cited the need for drug rehabilitation centers in Cebu as more drug dependents surrender in the midst of a tougher campaign against illegal drugs.

“Rehabilitation is the defining factor in the life of a drug dependent,” said Ligaya Moneva, DOH-7 spokesperson.

Cebu City Police Office Director Benjamin Santos Jr. said the police had planned to put up a rehabilitation center in Cebu to aid those who have recently surrendered.

“It’s easy to surrender but tomorrow they could go back. There needs to be sustainability,” Santos said.

Santos said it is also important for rehabilitated individuals to find jobs after treatment, so they can contribute to the community.

Moneva said the DOH-7 has conducted seminars on after-care with former drug dependents who are about to work in or run rehabilitation centers.

Moneva said former drug users are the best people to help those who are struggling with drug dependency, because they know the situation first-hand.

The Cebu Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Commission said a total of 11 accredited private and government-owned rehabilitation centers operate in Cebu.

Dr. Alice Utlang, Cebu City Office on Substance Abuse (COSAP) chief, said these centers were operating at full capacity in 2015, but less than 1,000 individuals are currently undergoing treatment.

Utlang said few centers have space for female patients.

Fees in private rehabilitation centers range from PHP15,000 to PHP45,000 a month, while fees in government-owned centers range from PHP3,000 to PHP6,000 per month. (PNA) LAP/EB/EDS