Iligan City kicked off its Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Week on Monday, emphasizing a health-oriented approach to tackling illegal drug use. The initiative, launched on November 18, 2024, aims to shift the perspective on drug abuse from purely punitive to one that prioritizes public health.
Rowel Rubio, the head of the Iligan Anti-Drug Abuse Council, highlighted the city’s dedication to a strategy centered on health. ‘Addressing drug abuse demands a change in our approach,’ Rubio stated, advocating for compassionate and evidence-based methods over traditional penalties.
Col. Reinante Delos Santos, the director of the Iligan police, recognized the city government’s efforts in bolstering anti-drug operations. ‘While illegal drug use remains illegal, the health-based approach allows us to explore suitable programs,’ Delos Santos noted, emphasizing that law enforcement continues to be crucial, yet complementary to health-focused initiatives.
The week-long event is designed to increase public awareness and encourage community-driven efforts that integrate enforcement with rehabilitation and prevention. This balanced approach seeks to address the root causes of drug abuse and provide effective solutions.