This article documents the development of a community-based drug intervention for low- to mild-risk drug users who surrendered as part of the Philippine government's anti-drug campaign. It highlights the importance of developing evidence-informed drug recovery interventions that are appropriate to the Asian culture and to developing economies. Interviews and consultations with users and community stakeholders reveal the need for an intervention that would improve the drug recovery skills and life skills of users. Evidence-based interventions were adapted using McKleroy and colleagues’ (2006) Map of Adaptation Process (MAP) framework. The resulting intervention reflected the country's collectivist culture, relational values, propensity for indirect and non-verbal communication, and interdependent self-construal. The use of small groups, interactive and creative methodologies, and the incorporation of music and prayer also recognised the importance of these in the Philippine culture.

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This study evaluated the training of facilitators and pilot implementation of the Katatagan Kontra Droga sa Komunidad (KKDK), a communitybased drug recovery program. Paired samples t-test of pre and posttest scores of 111 community facilitators who underwent training revealed significant changes in their perceived competence, motivation, and commitment. The program was pilot-tested among 46 mild-risk drug users. Pre and posttest results revealed moderate effects in substance use dependence symptoms and life skills, and large effects in drug recovery skills and psychological well-being. Correlational analysis of posttest scores revealed a negative relation between life skills and SUD symptoms and a positive relation between recovery skills and psychological well-being. Post-program focus group discussions with participants and interviews with facilitators highlighted the value of building recovery and life skills in enabling change in the participants and their families. However, field observations revealed a number of enablers and challenges in implementation.