Cebu local government units are being equipped with skills to provide continuing support to people recovering from drug dependency after formal treatment, as government agencies strengthen community-based aftercare and reintegration efforts.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development Central Visayas (DSWD 7) served as trainers and resource speakers during the five-day Training of Trainers on the Yakap Bayan Program held Aug. 24 to 28 at MJ Hotel and Suites in Cebu City.
The training, spearheaded by the Cebu Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Office (CPADAD), brought together representatives from various LGUs across the province, mostly Municipal/City Social Welfare and Development Officers (M/CSWDOs) who handle aftercare and reintegration programs in their respective communities.
DSWD 7 Family Sector Technical Staff Member Rhez Jarlyn B. Decena, Family Sector Focal Person Maricel P. Madamba, Yakap Bayan Focal Person Shane A. Narra and Social Welfare and Development (SWAD) staff Atty. Divince Grace R. Lecias shared their technical expertise and practical approaches during the sessions.
The discussions covered Yakap Bayan guidelines, case management strategies and the legal aspects of supporting Recovering Persons Who Use Drugs (RPWUDs).
The training aimed to strengthen the capacity of LGU personnel to provide community-based aftercare and reintegration support and respond to the needs of recovering individuals in their localities.
Participants also exchanged experiences from their respective communities, sharing practices, challenges and approaches in assisting RPWUDs.
The exchange helped build a common understanding of the program and promote a more coordinated approach to recovery and reintegration across Cebu.
The activity also highlighted the role of LGUs as frontline partners in sustaining recovery after formal treatment, particularly by providing continued support to individuals and their families as they rebuild their lives and return to their communities.
DSWD 7 said the training reflects the importance of inter-agency collaboration in developing communities that support recovery, strengthen families and provide opportunities for successful reintegration.
The activity also supports DSWD 7’s Harmonized Actions and Processes for Swift, Accountable Yield (HAPSAY) initiative, which aims to help partners deliver faster, simpler and more client-centered services in line with standards of the Anti-Red Tape Authority.
Photo courtesy of DSWD 7
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