Over 4,400 illegal drug users in NCR to undergo rehab under BIDA program

A total of 4,490 people who used illegal drugs  in Metro Manila are set to undergo the recovery wellness program of the government, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) said on Monday.

During its rollout ceremony for the "Buhay Ingatan, Droga'y Ayawan" (BIDA) program, the NCRPO presented 100 illegal drug users representing the over 4,400 people who surrendered to authorities.

In November, the national government officially launched  its anti-illegal drugs advocacy program dubbed as BIDA, described as an intensified and more holistic campaign

The program will engage local government units, national government agencies, and other key sectors of society aside from anti-illegal drug enforcement agencies.

Aside from conducting law enforcement operations, the BIDA program also aims the reduce the demand for illegal drugs and offer rehabilitation in communities.

Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos said the BIDA program will work with barangays, the church, and families to address the drug problem and rehabilitate those addicted to illegal drugs.

Meanwhile, the NCRPO also presented during the event its accomplishments on anti-illegal drug operations from December 3 to December 9, 2022.

In 300 operations, NCRPO said 516 drug personalities including 18 high value individuals have been arrested and over P39.6 million of illegal drugs have been seized. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News