OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental (PIA) -- At least 67 renewed persons who used drugs (PWUDs) have benefited from the Ozamiz city government’s livelihood assistance program.

These beneficiaries are residents of five drug-cleared barangays in Ozamiz City, including Gala, Diguan, Pantaon, Dimaluna, and Gutocana Diot. 

The local government targets providing alternative sources of income for PWUDs through agricultural activities while reintegrating them into their respective communities. 

Out of the 67 PWUD beneficiaries, three of them received goats, 14 received piglets, and 50 of them received pairs of breeding chickens. 

Ozamiz City Mayor Indy Oaminal, in coordination with the City Veterinary Office, City Health Office, Philippine National Police, and City Anti-Drug Abuse Council, led the conduct of livelihood assistance dispersal to the 6th batch of beneficiaries on January 18. 

The distribution of assistance at the Mini Gymnasium in Barangay Pantaon was also attended by Vice Mayor Simplicia “Bebie” Neri and members of the Ozamiz City Council, Board Member Nemesio Lahaylahay, DILG Officer Edgel Vedra, PNP, City Vet, CADAC, and the chairpersons of the 5 beneficiary barangays. 

Speaking on behalf of Mayor Indy Oaminal, Neri conveyed the city government’s appreciation and gratitude to the PWUDs for allowing themselves to be rehabilitated and renew their lives. 

Neri assured the beneficiaries of continuous support from the local government. 

Oaminal earlier said the provision of support to PWUDs despite the past addiction problem is a manifestation of the government’s willingness to give everyone a chance. 

The city’s implementation of the Sustainable Livelihood Program is anchored in the administration’s Asenso Ozamiz flagship under the leadership of Mayor Henry “Indy” Oaminal Jr., with the assistance of 2nd District Rep. Sancho Fernando “Ando” Oaminal and Misamis Occidental Governor Henry Oaminal. 

It is also part of the administration’s Aftercare Program for PWUDs who graduated from the Community-Based Drug Rehabilitation Program. (PGMO/PIA-10/Misamis Occidental)