342 former drug users in Caloocan City complete community-based rehabilitation program
Some 342 persons who used drugs (PWUDs) completed the Caloocan City’s Community Assisted Rehabilitation and Research Outpatient Treatment and Training System (CARROTS) on Wednesday, Dec. 28.
Caloocan City Mayor Dale Gonzalo “Along” Malapitan attended the completion ceremony for the program’s participants at the Caloocan Sports Complex.
The local government said that CARROTS focuses on the physical and psychological rehabilitation of the PWUDs toward their reintegration to the society.
Malapitan encouraged the PWUDs to continue their path to recovery.
“Nagpursigi kayong magbagong-buhay at nagsumikap na kumawala sa pagiging alipin ng ipinagbabawal na gamot. Patunay po ito na mayroong ikalawang pagkakataon at sa panibagong buhay na naghihintay sa inyo, sikapin niyo po itong gawing matiwasay at makabuluhan (You persevered to renew your lives and vowed to break free from being slaves of illegal drugs. This is proof that there is a second chance and a new life that awaits you, try to make it good and meaningful,” he said.
The mayor also reiterated that illegal drugs have no place in the city and the local government will have zero tolerance to drug pushers who will be arrested.
He also said that the city government is firmly committed to help PWUDs heal and ease the transition as they go back to their respective communities
Malapitan vowed to launch more appropriate programs to meet the needs of each sector and help alleviate the situation of people who are victims of illegal drugs.