The Negros Occidental Drug Rehabilitation Foundation Inc. yesterday sought the help of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for its operations in order to continue rehabilitating drug dependents in the province.

Dr. Ernesto Palanca, NODRFI executive director, yesterday said the 60-bed Negros Occidental Drug Rehabilitation Center in Victorias City, needs financial help, to sustain its operation. It currently has 23 patients.

NODRFI, a non–profit and non-government organization, was established in 2003, with the help of former Governor Joseph Maranon, former Rep. Jose Carlos Lacson, former Vice Governor Isidro Zayco, former Mayor Remedios Palanca- Bantug and city officials of Victorias.

Palanca, who appeared at the SP regular session, presided over by Board Member Mae Javellana, said the NODRC is one of the remaining 35 drug rehab centers existing in the country, which were 85 in the past and is accredited by the Dangerous Drug Board.

The rehabilitation center helps in government drug demand reduction campaign, he said.

Palanca told SP members they are operating at P3.4 million budget year, and charging only P10,000 a month per client, but should be P35,000, including board and lodging.

In response to the appeal of Palanca, Javellana said they will hold a caucus of members to determine the contribution, while Board Member Thea Mae Dino, Sangguniang Kabataan representative to the SP, has pledged P50,000.*GPB

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