Leading the charge against illegal drug use with the Buhay Ingatan, Drogra’y Ayawan (BIDA) Program
On January 29th, 2024, Secretary Benjamin Abalos arrived in Los Angeles in preparation for the Manila International Film Festival taking place on February 2nd. Upon landing, the Secretary was immediately interviewed by members of the local and foreign press, to discuss the initiative he has put in place in order to transform Philippine society and boost economic growth.
In this interview, Secretary Abalos announced his comprehensive plans to combat illegal drug use in order to promote a drug-free society with the Buhay Ingatan, Drogra’y Ayawan (BIDA) Program. In addition, he hopes to create an easier environment for business to boom by streamlining processes related to starting, and keeping, a business in order to trigger economic growth.
Launched in 2022, the BIDA program utilizes a holistic approach which prioritizes healthy living and human rights, in order to help those affected by the use of illegal drugs. The program prides itself on making rehabilitation and reintegration more accessible to people who have suffered due to the ill effects of drug use. This combined with his efforts to help businesses thrive will foster economic growth while combating drug use by giving rehabilitated persons affected by drug use opportunities to create a new life. In addition, Secretary Abalos discussed the Department of Labor’s participation in the program, which aims to reduce chances of individuals returning to drug use after rehabilitation. This collaborative effort ensures job opportunities for rehabilitated individuals to help seamlessly transition them back into society.
In order for this initiative to be successful, Secretary Abalos emphasized the need for different groups to work together including government institutions, private sectors, the church and more. To promote this comprehensive initiative, BIDA has partnered with various groups including private entities and sports leagues such as Philippine Basketball Association, Premier Volleyball League, USAID RenewHealth, and the University Athletic Association of the Philippines. In addition, BIDA is also working with SM Cinemas, Megaworld Cinemas at Ayala Malls, SMART Communications, and San Miguel Corporations. Although already an impressive list of partners, BIDA hopes to continue expanding its reach by collaborating with more groups.
Secretary Abalos also stressed the need to promote healthy living through physical activities and cultural engagement. He highlighted the necessity of Philippine films showcasing the beauty of the Philippines by sharing art, talent, and culture with a global audience. He encourages global Philippine communities to take pride in their history and heritage, in order to improve the future of the country.
Secretary Abalos hopes that with the Manila International Film Festival taking place in Hollywood, those outside of the Philippine communities, including foreign directors, will learn more about Philippine arts. This effort will increase awareness of the Philippines and its culture, bringing Philippine films to the global stage. In addition, he urges Filipino filmmakers to showcase the beauty of the country and its people in Philippine films to aid in global perception of the country.
With the increase of exports of Philippine arts, like films, and the comprehensive initiative to combat drug use, the Secretary works towards developing and transforming the country. In addition, Secretary Abalos is leading the charge against illegal drug use with the BIDA initiative. Secretary Abalos’ program combines various aspects of the Philippines, from the arts to government and private sectors, in order to continue to build a strong nation that is prosperous with a bright future. These efforts will create a better quality of life for Philippine communities, both inside and outside of the beautiful nation.
Published by: Martin De Juan
