Aksyon Demokratiko vice presidential aspirant Dr. Willie Ong expressed his stand on the war on drugs, reiterating this campaign as a public health issue
Since February 8, during the Aksyon Demokratiko’s proclamation rally, Ong had urged the importance of rehabilitation, advising the government to consider a health approach on the drug dealers instead of sending them to jail, believing the war on drugs is science-based.
“Palagay ko masyado tayong nag-focus sa paghuli. Kung gusto natin ma-eliminate ang illegal drugs, we should treat it as a public health concern. Kaya ‘yung UN nag-shift din ng mindset. Nakita nila based sa mga dialogue with scientific experts na social protection at healthcare ang lunas, hindi pagpapakulong,” Ong stated.
Ong cited other countries that rely on criminal aspects and had ended up failing in the aspects of regulation, addressing the importance of psychiatrists and psychologists to help the drug users recover from their usage of vices.
The cardiologist recommended the urgency of rehabilitation to cater to the needs of the two to three million drug addicts, urging the government to educate the public on breaking the discrimination against people undergoing drug addiction.
He suggested that behavioral therapies and medication assistance be given focus and stated the importance of encouraging people to engage in crafting policy in public health, law enforcement, science, and healthcare systems.
Photo Credit: facebook.com/DocWillieOngOfficial