Baguio City’s efforts to combat drug abuse have been recognized by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), which commended the city’s Anti-Drug Abuse Council (CADAC) for its high functional performance in 2023. The city is actively expanding its facilities to support its anti-drug initiatives, including setting up a temporary Special Drug Education Center (SDEC) at the city library for out-of-school youths and street children. This center will serve as a space for counseling and education, helping these vulnerable groups steer clear of drug abuse.
Michelle Agbuya, the CADAC secretariat, announced during the council’s fourth-quarter meeting that the city library will temporarily host the SDEC. The center is planned to include various facilities such as a vocational room, tutoring room, counseling room, library, conference room, comfort rooms, sleeping quarters, dining area, kitchen, and office space for staff. Coordination with the City Librarian has been completed to ensure the smooth operation of the SDEC.
Additionally, Baguio City is considering the Philippine Nurses Association building next to the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) as a potential location for a Bahay Silangan, a rehabilitation program aimed at reforming individuals who have used drugs. This initiative is part of a broader effort to provide comprehensive support and rehabilitation for those affected by drug abuse.
Millicent Carino, the DILG city officer, reported that out of the 128 Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (ADACs), only four were rated with low functionality last year. The DILG uses a 10-point key indicator rating system to assess the performance of ADACs, focusing on the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of anti-illegal drug activities. This annual assessment aligns with the national government’s priorities to combat illegal drugs while upholding the law and respecting human rights.