The Balay Silangan Reformation Center of Malalag, the first halfway house for drug dependents in Davao del Sur, has been inaugurated on Tuesday (June 21, 2022), and now ready to provide free services.
The creation of the reformation center is spearheaded by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Region XI in collaboration with the municipal government of Malalag, Department of the Interior and Local Government and other government agencies.
The collaboration of the agencies and the operationalization of the center was sealed in a Memorandum of Understanding, which was signed after the unveiling.
PDEA-XI Director Anne Lovitos and Malalag Mayor Peter Paul Valentin led the signing of the MOU and manifesto of commitment held at Malalag gymnasium.
Jessie Ann Delos Reyes, Balay Silangan focal person of PDEA XI, said that the reformation center offers alternative interventions for drug dependents with the provision of livelihood trainings, aftercare, community and social programs.
It is a collaborative program that gives second chances to drug dependents in a compassionate way, Delos Reyes emphasized.
Rev. Fr. Lito Doguiles who officiated the blessing of the center, said that this endeavor provides opportunities for new beginnings with God as the center, not only for drug dependents but also for the people behind the Balay Silangan.
The reformation center is the first in Davao del Sur and third in Davao Region. (PIA XI/Razhina Bruce)
