The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)-Abra in partnership with local government units have established two reformation centers called Balay Silangan – in Bucay and in Tayum. Balay Silangan is a reformation program that helps individuals stop substance or drug abuse. 

Bucay started its operation in December 2018 and already had 19 graduates in January 30, 2019. On the other hand, Tayum has just started its operation in June 20, 2019, with seven enrollee-reformists. 

“I am proud to say that we are the first province in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) and in Northern Luzon to establish a Balay Silangan,” PDEA Abra Provincial Officer Julius M. Paderes said.

Nineteen reformation clients of Balay Silangan in Bucay are now productive members of the society through this program. They are now recognized as volunteers of the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office of Bucay. 

Paredes said the graduates underwent livelihood training by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)-Abra. They were schooled about animal husbandry, massage therapy, and other services. This joint effort between TESDA and PDEA is a part of the 30-day training program in Balay Silangan. 

Balay Silangan is based on the concept of Bahay ng Pagbabago, a reformation center which helps rehabilitate drug offenders. The Dangerous Drugs Board (DRB) Regulation No. 2, series of 2018, laid the groundwork of Balay Silangan to provide guidelines for community involvement and reformation of drug offenders to become self-sufficient and law-abiding members of society.

The reformation program in Bucay became a success through the help of Local Chief Executive Bernadette Baroña and the Philippine National Police.