DUTERTE: NEW DRUG CENTER NOT FOR BIG-TIME DEALERS

Says rehab center's doors not closed to drug victims from other
places

DAVAO City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte said Wednesday the P12 million Davao
City Rehabilitation Center for Drug Dependents (DCRCDD) in Bago Oshiro
will address the various dimensions of drug addiction and other
drug-related problems of the city.

But, this is no place for big-time drug dealers, he
said.

"We will continue to take care of the victims especially the young
ones, but at the same time we will maintain the hard-line stance
against big time pushers. They don't need the treatment here because
they have the money. They belong somewhere else and I don't know what
kind of facilities they deserve. Hindi dito ilalagay ang mga big
time," Duterte said Wednesday during the center's inauguration graced
by President Arroyo.

He said that the rehabilitation center is proof positive that he is
not out to snuff out the lives of victims of illegal drugs. It was
then when he said that big-time drug dealers have no such haven in the
city.

He said an estimated amount of P27 million would be spent for the
yearly maintenance of the center. The amount, he said, will be taken
from the peace and order fund of the mayor's office.

He said although the center will cater mainly to the city's drug
victims, the door is not closed to other drug victims from other
places as well.

"The center should not serve those coming from Davao City alone but
this should serve all Filipinos," Duterte said.

He said children who are caught sniffing rugby would be his priority
because they needed treatment. He said he is looking into their
educational needs.

"Maybe I'll add another building here para dito na sila mag-aral (So
they can study here)," Duterte added.