LUCENA CITY, Quezon — A family in Barangay Ibabang Dupay is left reeling after a suspected drug-addicted son allegedly set their livelihood on fire early Monday morning. The target of the arson was the family’s tricycle, a crucial source of income for the household. Authorities estimate the damage at approximately ₱100,000.

According to Barangay Councilor Nilo Sadia, the parents have long endured their son’s disruptive behavior. The suspect, known locally as “Sandro,” reportedly engaged in drug abuse and, at times, allegedly sold stolen items from the family home to support his addiction.

Following the incident, the suspect fled the scene, prompting a police search still underway. Meanwhile, the family is left to grapple with the loss of their primary means of livelihood, raising questions about the safety net for families dealing with addiction-related crises.

This incident reflects a larger societal issue: the intersection of drug dependency, family strain, and community safety. While law enforcement focuses on apprehending suspects, underlying problems like drug rehabilitation, mental health support, and preventive community programs remain critical. How can local authorities and communities better intervene before substance abuse escalates to criminal acts that destroy lives and livelihoods?

The Lucena City case serves as a stark reminder that addressing drug-related problems requires more than policing—it demands a proactive, holistic approach to prevent families from becoming victims of both addiction and violence. (Larawan mula sa: NET25 / Facebook)