Pubdate: Thu, 30 Oct 2003 Source: Sunstar Davao (Philippines) Copyright: 2003 Sunstar Contact: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1991 Note: also listed for feedback Author: Raquel C. Bagnol DUTERTE: NEW DRUG CENTER NOT FOR BIG-TIME DEALERS Says rehab center's doors not closed to drug victims from other places DAVAO City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte said Wednesday the P12 million Davao City Rehabilitation Center for Drug Dependents (DCRCDD) in Bago Oshiro will address the various dimensions of drug addiction and other drug-related problems of the city. But, this is no place for big-time drug dealers, he said. "We will continue to take care of the victims especially the young ones, but at the same time we will maintain the hard-line stance against big time pushers. They don't need the treatment here because they have the money. They belong somewhere else and I don't know what kind of facilities they deserve. Hindi dito ilalagay ang mga big time," Duterte said Wednesday during the center's inauguration graced by President Arroyo. He said that the rehabilitation center is proof positive that he is not out to snuff out the lives of victims of illegal drugs. It was then when he said that big-time drug dealers have no such haven in the city. He said an estimated amount of P27 million would be spent for the yearly maintenance of the center. The amount, he said, will be taken from the peace and order fund of the mayor's office. He said although the center will cater mainly to the city's drug victims, the door is not closed to other drug victims from other places as well. "The center should not serve those coming from Davao City alone but this should serve all Filipinos," Duterte said. He said children who are caught sniffing rugby would be his priority because they needed treatment. He said he is looking into their educational needs. "Maybe I'll add another building here para dito na sila mag-aral (So they can study here)," Duterte added. - --- MAP posted-by: Josh