Fostering strategies for a drug-free community, the Municipal Anti-Drug Abuse Council (MADAC) of Trento held its 1st Quarter Meeting on February 14, 2020 at the Sangguniang Bayan Session Hall.
Presided by the Chairperson Honorable William Calvez, the Meeting evolved around drug-related concerns in the municipality including issues on shelter, rehabilitation, and anti-smoking practices.
The Municipal Health Officer, Dr. Christine Joy Macalagay divulged facts and features of different drugs that are commonly used, their scientific formulation and effects on health if abused by the user.
Mental Health was likewise underscored by Dr. Macalagay which eventually resulted to deliberating management strategies of several mentally-problematic individuals spotted in the municipality.
Out of this issue, shelter emerged to be a relative variable that needs to be addressed by the Local Government Unit as response to the issues in housing individuals with problems in substance use, mental health, and juvenile delinquency.
In another development, Loren Villare, a nurse from the Rural Health Unit presented substantial facts about smoking and its effects to smokers, second-hand individuals, and the community.
This prompted the Municipal Anti-Drug Abuse Council to revisit existing ordinances, and intensify Anti-Smoking campaign not only in public areas of Trento, but the entirety of the municipality.
While the main agenda was concentrated on drugs and smoking, other relevant issues raised by the Council included problems in bora-bora, sukarap gang, and the perennial computer addiction of students resulting to truancy from school.
Aside from other council members who were present during the meeting, PMaj Regino Precioso Jr. of Trento PNP, 1Lt Begie De Jesus of 75th IB, and SSgt Leonilo Gemina of 25th IB signified their commitment for the cause within their respective area of responsibility.
Facilitated by MLGOO Milariza Beniga herself, the MADAC 1st Quarterly Meeting concluded with forum and a luncheon.
By Allen Joe Lumanta, MIO