Commentary on: Sy, Bontje, Ohshima & Kiepek. Articulating the form, function, and meaning of drug using in the Philippines from the lens of morality and work ethics

In this invited commentary we respond to Sy, Bontje, Ohshima, and Kiepek’s (2020) article that sought to articulate how drug use, as a ‘non-sanctioned’ occupation, should be understood in relation to the context within which it occurs; specifically, they consider the distinct historical, cultural, and socially situated values within which drug using in the Philippines occurs. We advocate for a collaborative approach that draws on the interdisciplinary value that occupational science can afford, in order to support the establishment of a comprehensive occupational perspective. Further, we consider this work in relation to Twinley’s concept ‘the dark side of occupation’, upholding that an occupational perspective of drug use is crucial.