President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. (Photo courtesy of Malacañang)

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has echoed the initiative of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to combat illegal drugs, which the latter highlighted during his second State of the Nation Address (SONA) last Monday.

Go, chairman of the Senate Health and Demography Committee, lauded the President Marcos'
 commitment to continue the war on drug initiated by the latter's predecessor, former president Rodrigo Duterte. 

This move comes as the nation continues to face challenges in tackling the drug menace and sustaining the gains made by the previous administration.

The senator from Davao expressed confidence that with the continued commitment to the war on drugs, the nation could provide a safer and more secure environment for its citizens. 

Go highlighted the need for a collective effort in addressing the drug issue, calling for unity among government agencies, local communities, and citizens. He emphasized the importance of public cooperation in reporting drug-related activities and assisting law enforcement in their operations.

Marcos cited the revamped campaign against illegal drugs, the progress made toward peace and development, and the importance of unity and diplomacy in pursuing the country's interests. 

The President introduced the Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan or BIDA Program, which has led to the establishment of 102 Balay Silangan Reformation Centers across the country. 

These centers are aimed at providing holistic support to drug dependents, helping them reintegrate into society as productive members, and breaking the cycle of addiction.

“The campaign against illegal drugs continues—but it has taken on a new face. It is now geared towards community-based treatment, rehabilitation, education, and reintegration, to curb drug dependence amongst our affected citizenry… We will (also) relentlessly continue our fight against drug syndicates, shutting down their illegal activities and dismantle their network of operations,”  Marcos said. 

“Unscrupulous law enforcers and others involved in the highly nefarious drug trade have been exposed. I will be accepting their resignations. In their stead, we will install individuals with unquestionable integrity, who will be effective and trustworthy in handling the task of eliminating this dreaded and corrosive social curse. We cannot tolerate corruption or incompetence in government,” the President added.

Go has introduced several significant bills aimed at tackling pressing issues such as illegal drugs and criminality.

Among these proposals are the establishment of drug abuse treatment and rehabilitation centers and a Magna Carta for Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) personnel. 

In support of the government's anti-drug campaign, Go has introduced Senate Bill (SB) 428, which seeks to set up a Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Center in each province. 

These centers will not only provide care and treatment for drug dependents but also offer after-care, follow-up, and social reintegration services to aid their recovery and successful reintegration into society.

Go emphasized the importance of establishing these centers, stating that they are a crucial step in helping drug dependents rebuild their lives and become productive members of society.

In addition to rehabilitation, Go filed SB 2115, which aims to institutionalize technical-vocational education and training programs for rehabilitated drug dependents. This initiative is aimed at enhancing the employability of former drug dependents and empowering them with the necessary skills for a better future.

Go stressed that these legislative measures are designed to address key issues and provide necessary support, taking a holistic approach to combating illegal drugs. 

Through these bills, Go aims to strengthen the country's efforts in promoting a safer and more secure society.