LEGAZPI CITY, Albay (PIA) — The Albay Provincial Drug Rehabilitation and Treatment Facility (APDRTF) in Ligao City has announced that it is now accepting residential patients.
The provincial government has reopened its drug rehab facility with an expanded 100-bed capacity, health workers, and staff to provide comprehensive care and support to persons who have used drugs (PWUDs) on their journey to recovery and reintegration into their communities.
“Last time 10-bed capacity tayo. Ngayon nag-increase into 21-bed capacity… mayroon tayong naka-prepare na 80-bed capacity so that’s more than a hundred bed capacity. Nagpe-preparar po kita ta kung igwa man na mag-abot na influx para makatabang man kita sa PWUDs,” APDRTF Chief Randie Asuncion said.
(Last time we had a 10-bed capacity. Today we increased to 21-bed capacity. We have prepared an 80-bed capacity so that’s more than a hundred-bed capacity. We prepared for possible influx so we can help the PWUDs.)
The Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) has declared the facility as the first in-patient center to be operated by a local government unit in the Bicol region.
Corazon Mamigo, DDB section head, emphasized the significance of the reopened facility in providing hope and new opportunities for PWUDs.
“This facility is more than just a building. It is a symbol of second chances and resilience,” Mamigo added.
She further called for collective support and commitment from communities to assist PWUDs in reintegrating into mainstream society.
“As we open the doors of APDRTF to drug dependents, may we also open our hearts and continue support and guidance in creating safe space for PWUDs where this facility stands as a beacon of strength, reminding the community that everyone has the capacity for transformation,” she said.
Albay Gov. Edcel Lagman expressed optimism about the facility reopening as part of the government’s rehabilitation programs for the PWUDs.
“While our penal laws are archaic, it’s refreshing to note that our policies always include rehabilitative programs. Personally, I see drug addiction as a medical illness that can be treated. One where full recovery is possible,” Lagman said.
“Law enforcement does not end in apprehending drug pushers and drug users. It’s just a means to a higher end: that of rehabilitating and treating our PWUDs,” he added.
The facility was established in 2019 as a residential facility for PWUDs, but due to COVID-19 restrictions, it was temporarily converted into a provincial isolation unit.
Interested clients can call the APDRTF at 09944795080. (PIA5/Albay/With reports from the Albay Provincial Information Office)
