Graduates of Drug Reformation Program Empowered in Zamboanga Sibugay

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines — Twenty-seven persons who used drugs (PWUDs) graduated from a livelihood training program in Zamboanga Sibugay on Wednesday, August 6.

During a graduation ceremony held at the municipal gymnasium in Talusan, 21 graduates were awarded National Certificate II (NC2) in Carpentry, and six received NC2 in Masonry. The program is part of the Balay Silangan Reformation initiative aimed at supporting the reintegration of reformists into the community.

Each graduate was provided with basic equipment and tools tailored to their trade, enabling them to start their own livelihood. This assistance is significant for their transition back into society.

In his keynote address, Bryan Babang, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) director for the Zamboanga Peninsula, praised the graduates for their dedication to the reformation process. “Your commitment marks a step forward in building drug-free communities,” he noted.

Babang also thanked local government units and partner agencies for their continuous support of the Balay Silangan Program. The ceremony was attended by representatives from various government and community agencies, including the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Zamboanga Sibugay Police Provincial Office.

The graduation of these 27 PWUDs signifies a crucial milestone in the government’s efforts to provide sustainable reintegration support.