Some 29 Navoteños who used illegal drugs have been given a new lease on life following their graduation from Bidahan, the community-based treatment and rehabilitation program of the City Government of Navotas.
Of this number, six are children in conflict with the law (CICL). Three graduates, on the other hand, have successfully passed the six-month aftercare program.
“We are thankful to our graduates for choosing to change for the better and strive to become responsible citizens,” Mayor Toby Tiangco said.
“Acknowledging their addiction and fervently working to overcome it takes a lot of courage and self-control. We urge their families and our fellow Navoteños to support their endeavors and help them lead a changed life,” he added.
The former drug users underwent six months of online and limited face-to-face counseling conducted by the Navotas Anti-Drug Abuse Council (NADAC) in partnership with Narcotics Anonymous.
The Bidahan online program includes lectures, group counseling, relapse prevention, as well as multi-family and couple’s counseling and therapy.
The program also covers 12 steps group study, women’s group, youth/CICL counseling, and mental health awareness.
“The journey to become better versions of themselves, and transform into responsible and productive citizens will not be easy. However, we promise to support and keep them on track up until they are fit and ready to be on their own,” Navotas Rep. John Rey Tiangco said.
Bidahan started in October 2016. Fourteen batches consisting of 248 former drug users had since completed the community rehab and aftercare program. Jun David