KIANGAN, Ifugao -- More than a hundred drug surrenderees in the province are optimistic to have a better life, relationship to family and the community after completing the rehabilitation program at the Ifugao Reflection Camp (IRC).
In their testimonies during the recognition ceremony held at the Kiangan War Memorial Shrine Tuesday, some of the 109 drug surrenderees expressed the IRC has helped them to mend their way of living for a better future, family and environment.
These drug surrenders have completed the six months rehabilitation program at the IRC that can qualify them for recommendation for delisting from the drug watch list.
A female drug surrenderee from Lagawe shared her life before had no direction. Her children and neighbors were afraid of her due to her illegal drug activities but her life has changed when she became an IRC camper.
“When my family learned that I entered the IRC, they supported me and helped me to start a small business,” she added.
Another camper from Lamut narrated through the activities at the IRC, his relationship to God and family was strengthened.
“Dahil sa illegal na droga ay muntik na kaming maghiwalay ng asawa ko dahil sa aking ginagawa. Kaya kayong mga kabataan, huwag ninyong subukan na gumamit ng bawal na gamot (My husband and I almost broke up because of illegal drugs. So to the youth, don't try it),” he said.
Two of the drug surrenderees also enjoined the public not to misjudge them because they really wanted to have a peaceful and normal life like others in the community.
“We are enjoining your support, don’t be afraid of us, we are already reformed and we want also to be advocates against illegal drugs,” they stated.
The youngest drug surrenderer enjoined other campers to continue to live a normal life and be an example or asset in the community to avoid being jailed.
The recognition ceremony was graced by Department of Social Welfare Development Assistant Secretaries Lorraine Badoy and Anton Hernandez, and Office of the President ASEC Aurora Ignacio. (Marcelo Lihgawon/PR)