SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in the Ilocos Region jointly recognized outstanding efforts by local government units (LGUs), national agencies, and civil society organizations in advancing peace and anti-drug initiatives during an awarding ceremony held on Monday in this city.
DILG Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla, represented by Director IV Debie Torres of the Bureau of Local Government Supervision, highlighted the region’s accomplishments in fostering peace and addressing illegal drugs.
“Your collective efforts are the foundation of safer and more peaceful communities. You are not only role models but also pillars of good governance,” Torres stated.
The ceremony celebrated 126 high-performing Peace and Order Councils, achieving a remarkable 97.67 percent functionality rate.
Torres emphasized the importance of collaboration, saying, “The milestones we celebrate today are proof that when we work together, we can achieve a drug-free and secure Philippines.”
In the anti-drug campaign, Region 1 cleared 2,710 barangays and declared 338 barangays completely drug-free as of September 2024.
A total of 123 high-performing Anti-Drug Abuse Councils were also recognized for their critical role in preventing the proliferation of illegal drugs and maintaining community safety.
PDEA Ilocos Regional Director Joel Plaza praised the collaboration of various agencies for strengthening the fight against illegal drugs.
“The partnership with agencies is the key to amplifying the reach of our programs. Together, we ensure that our communities are informed, engaged, and empowered to tackle the drug menace effectively,” he said.
He also reiterated the importance of collective responsibility in the ongoing battle against drugs, urging all stakeholders to remain committed and united in the fight for a safer Philippines.
Among the recognized entities is the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region 1, which received a plaque of commendation for its advocacy and information dissemination efforts.
PIA Region 1 was acknowledged for playing a vital role in informing and mobilizing communities to support anti-drug campaigns.
The event concluded with a strong call for sustained collaboration, innovation, and dedication among stakeholders to ensure a safer, drug-free, and progressive Region 1.
“Together, we can build a future where every Filipino is free from the threats posed by illegal drugs,” Director Plaza concluded. (AMB/AIHR, PIA Region 1)
