Stigma prevents drug users from seeking rehab – DOH Cordillera

Benguet, Philippines – Illicit drug use remains prevalent in the country. From January to May 27 this year alone, the Philippine National Police arrested 24,197 suspects in its nationwide anti-drug operations.

In Cordillera, 14 personalities were arrested in the 15 anti-drug operations conducted by the regional Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency this June 2023.

To help in the nation’s campaign for drug abuse prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation, the Dangerous Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment Program of the Department of Health was previously created.

Dr. Gayle Kimmayong of DOH - Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Center – Mt. Province, in her interview with PTV Cordillera, said drug addiction is a disease in need of treatment. However, there are those who shy away from rehabilitation because of stigma - negative perceptions associated with substance abuse and addiction.

“Kahit gusto ng isang person who uses drugs na magpagamot, because of stigma, fear of judgment ayaw na niyang magpagamot”, she said.

To raise awareness and reduce stigma, the local government of La Trinidad, Benguet through its municipal anti-drug abuse council recently held an awareness campaign participated by the officers, barangay health worker and barangay tanods.

In a statement, Nurse Jomel Cayamdas DOH – DATRC – MP said they discussed actions to combat stigma against the substance use disease.

“Importante dayta, how you accept dagidiay addict idiay community tapnu ma-acceptar diay dadduma nga tattao dagiay addict,” stated Beckel Captain Gregorio Antonio in a message.

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Stigma prevents drug users from seeking rehab – DOH Cordillera

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