Kagawad Isidro Londres, chairman of the Barangay Peace and Order Committee, reported that illegal drugs are spreading again in their barangay.
Londres revealed that several former drug surrenderees during the Tokhang campaign under former President Rodrigo Duterte resumed selling drugs to survive financially.
He explained that many surrenderees face difficulty finding stable jobs because employers often reject applicants with drug-related criminal records or backgrounds.
Because of these employment challenges, some individuals choose to return to illegal drug activities as a quick way to earn income.
Londres urged the local government unit to provide interventions and support programs that will help former users and pushers rebuild their lives.
He emphasized the importance of immediate action, stressing that ignoring the issue could lead to a bigger illegal drug problem locally.
Despite the concerning trend, Londres remains optimistic that the situation can be addressed through the cooperation of law enforcement and local authorities.
He expressed confidence that the Philippine National Police, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, and the municipal government can resolve the community’s drug issues.
Polomolok Municipal Police Station Chief Police Lieutenant Colonel Harold Corel reported that only three of the town’s twenty-three barangays remain uncleared.
Londres recommended implementing targeted intervention programs for persons who used drugs to prevent them from returning to their former illegal activities.
He said that proper support, job opportunities, and rehabilitation initiatives can significantly reduce relapse rates and help build safer communities for everyone.
Authorities continue to coordinate closely to strengthen anti-drug campaigns and create sustainable programs to address the root causes of illegal drug activities.
