The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has expressed strong support for Senate Bill (SB) No. 2721, which aims to institutionalize technical-vocational education and training (TVET) and livelihood programs specifically for rehabilitated drug dependents.
The bill is seen as a significant move towards the reintegration of former drug dependents into society by equipping them with essential skills for employment.
Under the bill, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), will be tasked with creating specialized training programs designed for rehabilitated individuals.
Moreover, companies that employ rehabilitated drug dependents who have completed these programs will be eligible for incentives from DOLE.
In a statement, the CHR praised the bill, noting that it provides an opportunity for former drug dependents to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society.
“By institutionalizing TVET alongside livelihood programs, the bill provides rehabilitated individuals with the necessary skills and opportunities to rebuild their lives, contribute to the workforce, and break the cycle of substance dependence,” the CHR said.
The CHR highlighted that the bill upholds constitutional rights, including access to quality education (Article XIV, Section 1), gainful employment (Article XIII, Section 3), and the protection of human dignity (Article II, Section 11).
The commission also acknowledged the proactive approach taken in crafting the legislation, stating, “Through initiatives like this, the government demonstrates its commitment to a more inclusive and rehabilitative approach to drug addiction.”
The CHR urged for the swift passage of SB 2721, emphasizing the importance of providing every individual, regardless of their past, the chance to recover, rehabilitate, and reintegrate into society with dignity.
