DAP is implementing project Substance Use Disorder Training for Criminal Justice Institutions and Universities in Philippines to strengthen drug demand reduction (DDR) initiatives in the Philippines by introducing mechanisms to broaden understanding of the multifactorial nature of substance use disorders (SUD) among the criminal justice system agencies and universities.

The training for the 6th and 7th cohorts was held from 28 October to 7 November, 2019, while the 8th cohort was held from 3 to 13 February, 2020 in Quezon City, Philippines. The 10-day training covered three courses: Physiology and Pharmacology for Addiction Professionals (UTC 1), Treatment of Substance Use Disorders and The Continuum of Care for Addiction Professionals (UTC 2) and Developing Community Based Recovery Support Systems. The training was tailored to the needs of participants who do not work primarily in SUD treatment but play crucial role in the supply reduction and implementation of community-based treatment efforts in the country.

A total of 67 participants successfully completed the training. The participants represented the Philippine National Police, the Department of Justice, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, the City Anti- Drug Abuse Council, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, the Academy of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Philippine Public Safety College, Mindanao State University, Capitol University and Lourdes College.

Mr Brandon Hudspeth, Director – INL, US Embassy Manila; Deputy Director Colonel Ricardo Santiago, PDEA; and Police Colonel Roland Miranda, Executive Officer of Directorate, Human Resources and Development (DHRD) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) graced the opening ceremony.