Abra Governor Maria Jocelyn Bernos has ordered the creation of rehabilitation centers in every municipality of the province.

In signing Executive Order 14 last January 22, 24 rehab centers called Balay Silangan will be established in 24 towns of the province.

The towns of Danglas, Tayum and Bucay already have their own Balay Silangan that will serve to rehabilitate drug personalities.

Bernos in her order wrote said the establishment of Bahay Silangan or rehabilitation center in each municipality that shall shelter and cater to drug personalities, provide intervention, counseling and livelihood training.”

In a press statement, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency – Cordillera said: “Again (Gov. Bernos) showed her unwavering support in the agency’s barangay drug clearing programB by issuing an Executive Order mandating the establishment of Balay Silangan in all municipalities of Abra for the reformation of drug personalities in the province.”

It added: “As a matter of fact, Abra already established (3) three Balay Silangan centers which are Bucay, Tayum and Danglas Balay Silangan. .. .but the EO will bring the reformation center closer to each Abreño drug personalities even in far flung areas.”

PDEA Director General Wilkins Villanueva said: “Walang kailangang mamatay, walang kailangang makulong. Rehabiltasyon lang ang kailangan para makapag bagong buhay ang mga dating nalulong. (No one should die. No one should be imprisoned. Rehabilitation is what one needs to have a better life for those addicted [to drugs]).”