Philippine Drug Agency Reports 29,016 Individuals Enrolled in Rehab Programs in 2024

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) announced on Monday that 29,016 drug-involved individuals have participated in the government’s rehabilitation and reformation initiatives throughout 2024. According to the agency, this figure breaks down into 25,789 drug users and 3,227 drug dealers. Among the drug users, 16,494 completed the Community-Based Drug Rehabilitation Program, and 9,063 finished general intervention programs, both of which are community-focused efforts. Additionally, 232 individuals underwent treatment at accredited Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Centers nationwide. On the other hand, of the 3,227 drug dealers, 749 have completed their rehabilitation, while 79 are still in the process under the Balay Silangan Reformation Program. The rest have signed an Affidavit of Undertaking and are awaiting placement. The Balay Silangan program, launched nationally in 2018, provides temporary shelter for drug dealers who have surrendered or are part of plea deals, aiming to transform them into productive, law-abiding citizens. It includes health awareness, counseling, moral and values education, life skills training, and employment opportunities. Since its start, 595 reformation centers have been established, with 63 added in 2024. The government’s approach also emphasizes reducing the stigma associated with drug use and enhancing prevention and rehabilitation efforts to tackle the drug issue comprehensively, offering recovery support and alternative job opportunities to prevent recidivism among drug sellers.