Jan. 28, 2026 – Seven Persons Who Use Drugs (PWUDs) were served by the city government through its Community-Based Drug Rehabilitation Program (CBDRP) in 2025.
These individuals were guided through a step-by-step process designed to ensure proper assessment, treatment, and reintegration into society under the program.
Meanwhile, two new patients have been admitted to the program this month.
The CBDRP, which provides a clear and coordinated mechanism to strengthen the fight against illegal drugs, is spearheaded by the Mental Health and Substance Use Wellness Unit (MHSUWU) of the City Health Services Office (CHSO) in partnership with various city offices and line agencies.
Under the program, PWUDs undergo different steps until they are reintegrated into society. The process also prioritizes health, dignity, and community support for the PWUDs.
The process begins at the barangay level, where Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (BADACs) conduct validation and demographic profiling of identified individuals. This includes verification of residency and coordination with law enforcement agencies such as the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Baguio City Police Office (BCPO), and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to ensure that individuals with pending criminal cases or who are on wanted lists are excluded from the program.
Validated PWUDs are then referred for Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) assessments conducted by trained personnel from the 16 District Health Centers, BCPO, City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), and other accredited partners, including faith-based organizations.
Based on the screening results, participants are classified into low-risk, moderate-risk, or high-risk categories.
Low-risk individuals undergo general interventions such as health education, counseling and values formation sessions, usually lasting about one month.
Moderate-risk individuals participate in a structured six-month community-based intervention program, which includes regular counseling sessions facilitated by health workers, social workers, trained personnel and faith-based partners.
High-risk individuals are referred for a Drug Dependency Examination (DDE) conducted by a Department of Health-accredited physician. Depending on the results, they may undergo outpatient or residential facility-based rehabilitation.
After completing their respective programs, participants formally graduate and enter the aftercare and reintegration phase, which typically lasts for at least 18 months. This stage focuses on relapse prevention, psychosocial support, livelihood assistance and continuous monitoring to help ensure sustained recovery.
MHSUWU Coordinator Ricky Ducas Jr. said the CBDRP reflects the city’s “commitment to a health-centered, compassionate and community-driven approach to drug rehabilitation, proving that recovery is possible through cooperation among families, communities and government institutions.”
He said the city continues to call on barangays, families and the public to support the program and help create a safer, healthier, and drug-free Baguio. ** Aileen P. Refuerzo
