Bulacan, Philippines – December 6, 2024 – the One Simple Act Movement (OSAM), in partnership with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines- Bulacan Chapter (IBP), successfully facilitated the third round of Drug Dependency Examinations (DDE) as part of their ongoing Mission for Justice Outreach Program. The Mission for Justice Outreach Program, which was officially formalized in a signed Memorandum of Agreement between OSAM founder and program director, Savior Manalang, and the IBP’s Legal Aid Committee on June 11, 2024, has been making strides in supporting PDLs, particularly those who have served their time but still require rehabilitation to re-enter society. The agreement marked the beginning of a collaboration to provide legal and rehabilitative assistance to first-time offenders with no pending cases, whose only missing requirement to reintegrate was the completion of the DDE.
A Milestone Collaboration
The partnership between OSAM and the IBP has already proven impactful. As previously reported, the first two batches of PDLs underwent their DDEs on October 31, 2024, and November 28, 2024. Under the terms of the court order secured by IBP, a private physician was authorized to conduct DDEs for eligible PDLs. This court order focused on first-time offenders, ensuring that the individuals receiving these examinations are ready to begin their rehabilitation and reintegration process.
For this important task, OSAM and IBP retained the services of Dr. Michael Arcilla, a Department of Health (DOH)-accredited physician specializing in Drug Dependency Examinations and Drug Rehabilitation. Dr. Arcilla’s expertise has been invaluable in ensuring that each detainee receives a thorough assessment and the appropriate recommendations for rehabilitation.
A Special Case: A Pregnant PDL
The recent DDE session was particularly notable because one of the detainees was a nine-month pregnant woman, expected to give birth in December. Despite her condition, she underwent the DDE as part of the ongoing efforts to meet the legal and rehabilitative requirements for reintegration.
In the compliance papers filed with the court, Dr. Arcilla emphasized that, while the PDL’s pregnancy was a factor to be considered in her rehabilitation program, she was eligible to receive support services. Given her situation, the recommended rehabilitation plan would include special considerations, ensuring that she receives the necessary healthcare and counseling services to address her specific needs during and after her pregnancy.
Key Findings and Recommendations
Dr. Arcilla’s evaluations were essential in determining their level of drug dependency and readiness for rehabilitation. In his compliance reports, filed with the court, Dr. Arcilla confirmed that the examinations were conducted as required and recommended that the PDLs undergo community-based rehabilitation programs. These programs are designed to provide continuous support, including counseling, preventive education, and monitoring under the supervision of DOH-accredited physicians, to ensure the detainees’ successful reintegration into society.
“These examinations are a critical step in the reintegration process,” said Dr. Arcilla. “By offering individualized recommendations for rehabilitation and support services, we are helping these individuals rebuild their lives and make meaningful contributions to society.”
Supporting Reintegration through Legal and Healthcare Partnerships
The Mission for Justice Outreach Program is more than just a legal initiative. It represents a holistic approach to justice and rehabilitation, where the legal profession and healthcare providers work together to ensure that individuals who have committed offenses are given the opportunity for rehabilitation and reintegration, rather than simply punitive measures.
“This partnership has been a game-changer for those who are at the crossroads of their legal and rehabilitation journeys,” said Savior Manalang, OSAM’s founder and program director. “By working with the IBP and securing the services of medical professionals like Dr. Arcilla, we are offering these PDLs the tools they need to turn their lives around.”
Moving Forward: A Continuing Effort
The OSAM and IBP Justice Outreach Program is committed to helping more PDLs through the DDE process, and there are plans to continue these efforts in the coming months. By providing these essential services and supporting PDLs in their rehabilitation, the program is not only helping individuals to regain their dignity and freedom but is also contributing to broader efforts toward restorative justice in the country.
As the program progresses, OSAM and IBP remain steadfast in their mission to promote a justice system that emphasizes rehabilitation over punishment, empowering individuals to rebuild their lives with the support they need to succeed.
“We are committed to continuing this vital work,” said Atty. Rose Bautista of IBP Bulacan Chapter. “By ensuring that PDLs receive the rehabilitation they need, we are contributing to a more compassionate and just society for everyone.”
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