After rendering community service as part of the healing process from the use of illegal drugs, around 207 drug reformists in Davao Oriental received cash assistance under the government’s cash-for-work program funded by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The provincial government of Davao Oriental said on Friday that each of the 207 drug reformists received PHP2,380.00 as payment for their community service, that included the cleaning of streets, highways and other forms of community works.

“This is the big thrust of the national government under President Duterte that is whole-heartedly supported by the Governor Nelson Dayanghirang,” said Art Benjie Bulaong, provincial administrator of Davao Oriental and the action officer of Anti-Drug Abuse Council in the province.

Bulaong added that the provincial government is also planning to establish a local program for drug reformists aimed at tapping national government agencies and other organizations to pool their resources to provide aid to individuals who are into illegal drugs and are willing to reform their lives.

The resources will include the support and provision of livelihood, skills development and education, he said.

“This intervention is just one of the programs being lined-up by the government for drug reformists to help them start over with their new lives,” he added.

He also thanked the 207 drug reformists for their cooperation, lauded their bravery for coming out in the open and assured them of the continued support from the provincial government.

Bulaong also encouraged them to convince others whom they know are still hooked in illegal drugs to come out and undergo rehabilitation process that is being offered and supported by the provincial government. (PNA)