Mandaue City Launches Jail-Based Rehab Program for Female Inmates

The Mandaue City Substance Abuse Prevention Office (MCSAPO) is launching a six-month jail-based rehab program for female inmates with drug-related cases. The program, set to begin in June 2024, aims to provide interventions and support for women in the city's jail system. This initiative follows the successful graduation of 63 male inmates from a similar program last year.

Atty. Ebenezer Daryl Manzano, head of MCSAPO, emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in the rehabilitation efforts. "Ang gusto man gud nato inclusive, nga naa tay interventions for both for female and male dormitories. Sugdan gihapon nato by batches" (We want to be inclusive, with interventions for both female and male dormitories. We'll do it by batches), Manzano states.

Why this matters: This rehabilitation program addresses the pressing issue of drug addiction, which affects not only the individuals involved but also their families and communities. By providing a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation, Mandaue City can reduce recidivism rates and create a safer, healthier society.

The program will be conducted in the female dormitory for the first time, with two sessions held every week. The goal is not only to help inmates build a new life but also to decongest the overcrowded jail cells. "This is an in-jail based rehabilitation. There's no need for them nga mogawas. Para sad ni siya nga maserve nato" (This is an in-jail based rehabilitation. There's no need for them to go out. This is how we can serve them), Manzano clarifies.

The rehabilitation program will target female inmates with cases related to illegal drugs, which account for a staggering 85% of the cases in the female dormitory, mirroring the situation in the male dormitory. MCSAPO has already conducted profiling for the first batch of female participants and is diligently preparing for the program's launch next month.

The jail-based rehabilitation program is a vital step in addressing the drug problem that plagues Mandaue City and the Philippines as a whole. By offering a comprehensive approach that combines therapy, education, and skills training, MCSAPO hopes to break the cycle of addiction and reduce recidivism rates among inmates.

The success of the male inmates' rehabilitation program last year serves as a demonstration of the effectiveness of such interventions. With 63 male inmates graduating from the program, MCSAPO aims to replicate this success with the female inmates, providing them with the tools and support necessary to overcome their drug-related challenges and reintegrate into society.

Key Takeaways

• MCSAPO launches 6-month jail-based rehab program for female inmates with drug-related cases.
• Program aims to provide interventions and support for women in Mandaue City's jail system.
• 85% of female inmates have drug-related cases, mirroring the situation in male dormitory.
• Program combines therapy, education, and skills training to break the cycle of addiction.
• 63 male inmates graduated from a similar program last year, demonstrating its effectiveness.