SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union  - The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in Region 1 will hold a "Buhay Ingatan, Droga'y Ayawan (BIDA)" fun run on March 23 at the Poro Point Baywalk.
 
The event aims to gather 5,000 participants for a three-kilometer run to mark the BIDA Program's first anniversary.
 
Launched in 2022, the BIDA program goes beyond law enforcement.
 
It actively promotes healthy activities and collaborates with local government units (LGUs) to organize fun runs like this.
 
DILG-Region 1 Assistant Division Chief Leslie Carol Isip emphasizes that combating the drug problem requires collective action, not just from the government.
 
The focus is on mobilizing community participation, particularly targeting the youth vulnerable to drug use.
 
“Instead na magdo-droga sila, mag-fun run na lang sila, mag-isports, [so] ‘yon po ‘yong ina-advocate po natin”, she stressed.
 
(Instead of turning to drugs, we encourage them to engage in sports and other healthy activities like this fun run.)
 
Winners will be awarded plaques and cash prizes: P4,000 for 1st place, P3,000 for 2nd, and P2,000 for 3rd.
 
Consolation prizes of P500 and medals will be given to the next 20 finishers, and the following 100 will receive water bottles in loot bags.
 
The BIDA Fun Run strengthens partnerships between DILG-Region 1, LGUs, government agencies, and local institutions.
 
This collaborative effort aims to promote community involvement in fostering health and deterring drug use in the region.
 
Through this event, DILG-Region 1 reaffirms its commitment to creating a drug-free environment.
 
By encouraging participation in wholesome activities, they aim to steer individuals away from illegal drugs and towards a healthier lifestyle. (JCR/AMB/MJTV/PIA Region 1)