Events: Negros Occidental Solon Lauds Role of Drug Rehabilitation in Campaign vs. Drug Abuse

Congressman Alfredo "Albee" Benitez (3rd District-Negros Occ.) Monday lauded the efforts of the men and women behind the Negros Occidental Drug Rehabilitation Foundation, Inc. (NODRFI) for their commitment and dedication towards full rehabilitation of drug patients at the "Dalangpan" drug rehab center in Victorias City, calling it an effective tool in the treatment, recovery and welfare of drug victims wishing to return to normalcy in the mainstream of society.

The Dalangpan music players pay homage to the occasion of the 9th anniversary of the NODRC in Victorias City.*(RGT photo)

In his message on the 9th anniversary of the NODRFI Drug Rehabilitation Center last Monday, the Negros solon greeted the staff of the center for their vital role in the task of providing rehab intervention to many hapless Negrenses who have fallen victims to the use and abuse of harmful drugs, especially the youth.

Benitez said in his message: "It is no mean accomplishment to maintain the drug rehabilitation facility, helping drug patients overcome their misfortune early in life.

"Your efforts to serve, most especially saving lives for a better future, will serve as an inspiring example to the citizens of Negros Occidental.

"This program also showcases a most invaluable partnership and cooperation among the government, the private sector and the citizenry."

The 3rd district legislator, also assured the NODRFI Board of Trustees headed by its chairman and president, Dr. Romulo Rhoel Mogul, its officers and staff of his full support in terms of legislative initiatives to help curb the evils of drugs and at the same time pledged to do his best to assist the center carry out its noble goals.

Congressman Benitez, vice chairman of the House Committee on Transportation, pointed out: "The greatest challenge to the drug rehab center as it marks its 9th year anniversary is how to generate and motivate more support for the program so that the services will continue and even expand to cover more beneficiaries, as the tentacles of the dreaded drug abuse problem continue to worsen in this country.

"There is also the challenge of strengthening the information-education and communication component of the program so that the community can be better equipped to cope with the drug problem in our midst."

In conclusion, Benitez lauded all those who have contributed to the success of this worthy project which must be supported by all concerned Negrenses and Filipinos.

"Count me in as your partner in this advocacy and lofty cause," Rep. Benitez told his listeners during the anniversary program.* (RGT)