Don Bosco Launches Community-based Drug Rehabilitation Program
September 2, 2017, Cebu, Pasil.
Dubbed as Lahat Bangon (LABANG) -Suba Program, a community-based recovery program for drug dependents was officially launched after many months of preparation. It was held at Barangay Suba Hall, Cebu City. Prior to this, Don Bosco-FIS, through its Magone Home Aftercare Program (MHAP) Team had been actively involved in Barangay Subangdaku, Mandaue City where the first LABANG program was been piloted.
Thirteen (13) surrenderers/ clients showed up together with immediate family members. The program started with a holy mass celebrated by Fr. Lamberto Paradiang Jr., SDB. He emphasized in is homily: “If you are willing to change for the better and not for the benefit of others but for yourself, the community, especially God will wholeheartedly accept you.”
Two (2) recovering addicts who successfully underwent a six-month community-based drug rehabilitation program in Barangay Subangdaku, Mandaue City were invited to give testimonies. Fr. Arvin Abatayo, SDB, outlined the whole intervention program and discussed the “KASABUTAN” or the agreement with the surrenderers to faithfully commit to the program. The surrenderers themselves determined the set of rules and guidelines they will follow while engaged in the program.
After signing the agreement, the Narcotics Anonymous representative, Mr. Bell Chirk Paculaba, led the oath taking of the surrenderers. The barangay officials of Barangay Suba led by Hon. Joel Sable, teachers, volunteers, counselors, interns and former addicts were present and in full support as they witnessed clients pledge their commitments to help themselves recover from their addiction and be reintegrated in the community.
The culmination of the program ended through a hand mark tradition that symbolized the agreement and willingness of the clients and all the stakeholders to take a proactive participation in making a better community. They then sang “Today My Life Begins.”
This initiative was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Sto. Nino Parish-Suba/Pasil ran by the Salesians of Don Bosco and the LGU officials and members of Barangay Suba.
Text and Photos by: Margarita Rio Diongzon
