Access to treatment is only one part of the recovery journey. Beyond clinical interventions, individuals in recovery may also require opportunities for education, livelihood, social services, and community support as they work toward rebuilding their lives and reintegrating into society.
These were among the areas explored during the Consultative Meeting with External Stakeholders organized by the Department of Health–Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Center (DOH-DATRC) CALABARZON, which brought together the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Office of the Provincial Community Development Officer (OPCDO), local government units, Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (ADACs), treatment and rehabilitation practitioners, and other stakeholders from across the region.
During the activity, updates on treatment, outpatient, aftercare, and recovery support initiatives currently being implemented in CALABARZON were presented. Stakeholders likewise discussed programs and services available through various institutions that may be accessed by recovering individuals and their families, including interventions related to health, education, employment, livelihood, social welfare, and community support. The discussions provided a broader perspective on the range of services available at different stages of the recovery and reintegration process.
The consultation also provided an opportunity for stakeholders to share local implementation experiences, community-based initiatives, and approaches adopted in addressing operational challenges. The exchanges offered insights into how individuals may interact with various institutions throughout recovery, from treatment and aftercare to skills training, employment assistance, and community-based support mechanisms.
Joining the consultation, DDB Chairperson – Secretary Oscar Valenzuela delivered a message emphasizing the role of treatment, rehabilitation, recovery support, and reintegration within the country’s balanced approach to drug abuse prevention and control. He likewise acknowledged the continuing contribution of local governments, Anti-Drug Abuse Councils, and partner institutions in supporting programs and services for individuals and families affected by substance use.
The activity culminated in the formalization of partnership commitments among participating institutions, reflecting the continuing engagement of stakeholders involved in delivering services and interventions that support recovery and reintegration efforts in CALABARZON.
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