A serious campaign to curb or completely eradicate illegal drugs and drug addiction must start off with the family and must involve the community and barangay officials. This was emphasized by Gov. Jose Enrique S. Garcia III in his speech on June 21, 2024 during the turnover and blessing of Balanga City BCARES, a 30-bed capacity drug rehabilitation and treatment center in Barangay Dangcol, Balanga. The site was a former isolation center for COVID-19 patients.

The governor echoed the remark of Executive Judge Marion Jacqueline P. Poblete, convenor of Balanga City Justice Zone, that most of those in the probation are involved in illegal drugs and more often than not violate the probation rules. Poblete, however, profusedly expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Balanga City government, city health office, and barangay officials for their sheer effort to ward off illegal drug activities in their areas. The feisty lady judge particularly cited the role played by the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council for its support in the campaign saying that the Badac members’ active participation was well worth the effort for their protective approach.

She, however, shared that the biggest challenge the lawmen face now is to identify the cause why illegal drugs flourish in certain barangay. “There must be a continued monitoring,” said Judge Poblete.

Dr. Mart Banzon, Balanga City health officer, said the rehab center will admit patients from Balanga free of charge. “Sa ngayon po ay mga lalaki muna tatanggapin namin, wala muna babae habang ginagawa po po ang ibang facilities namin,” Banzon told reporters. A drug patient, he said, should undergo six-month detoxification process. “Those with severe cases shall be referred to the Bataan Provincial Hospital and Medical Center for treatment. Balanga City Mayor Francis Anthony S. Garcia said the hosting of such rehab center is a showcase of the city government’s unwavering commitment to keep Balanga a livable city to attract not only investors but local and foreign tourists as well.

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