CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) -- Showing strong support to combat the use of illegal drugs, more than 1,100 runners from different national line agencies, groups, and individuals participated in the BIDA Fun Run Anniversary Celebration of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in northern Mindanao on March 23 at the Rio de Oro Boulevard. 

The event emphasized the importance of unity and the need for a collaborative effort in the fight against illegal drugs. "Today, this afternoon, as we run side by side, let this celebration serve as a reminder of the strength we possess when we stand together bound by a common purpose," DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos remarked, as relayed by Assistant Regional Director Yvette Tolentino-Sunga.

DILG has consistently emphasized the crucial role of collective action in the fight against illegal drugs, stressing that the government alone cannot triumph over this scourge.

"We all have to be BIDA champions for this fight," added Sunga, highlighting the significance of each individual's contribution towards creating a drug-free society. 

Expressing support for the event, Philippine National Police (PNP)-10 Regional Director BGen. Ricardo Layug, Jr., affirmed law enforcement's commitment to combating drug syndicates.

"Our commitment goes beyond enforcement. We will work closely with communities, intensifying our awareness campaign and educating our fellowmen on the ill effects of illegal drugs," he said.

City Administrator Roy Raagas, on behalf of Mayor Rolando Uy, further emphasized the significance of the BIDA program in the anti-drug campaign. He highlighted the program's success in mobilizing communities and stakeholders, stressing the importance of strategic partnerships in promoting anti-drug initiatives.

"Here in Cagayan de Oro City, we remain resolute in our dedication to the success of our anti-illegal drugs campaign. Under the auspices of the Cagayan de Oro City Anti-Drug Abuse Council, or CADAC, and in close collaboration with the Oro Wellness Center, our national government partners, and all barangay LGUs (local government units), we are intensifying our efforts through the robust implementation of the community-based drug rehabilitation program," Raagas said.

One of the participants, JO2 Naybeshell Cahil of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology-10, said aside from the effectiveness of the campaign against illegal drugs, it also promotes wellness in the community.

"Tsada kay siya nga activity, ma-enhance nimo ang imong energy, mapa-continue pa nimo ug matabangan pud ang atong community to share sa atong experiences nga importante diay ang pag-exercise. Nagpasalamat pud mo og dako nga daghan ang nagpartisipar karon," she said. 

[It is a nice activity, and with this, you can enhance your energy and also help our community share our experiences that exercise is important. I am very thankful that a lot of people participated in the activity.]

For his part, Darwin Arcinal from Barangay Carmen said he is very glad that the government has come up with this idea of beefing up the campaign against illegal drugs. 

"Epektib kaayo ni sa tanan kay nakigduyog gyud ang tanan ba, tanan nga mga tao diri sa Cagayan dili lang sa Cagayan, labi na sa Misamis Oriental. Murag makaingon ko nga dili lang ako ang naninguha nga maningkamot nga mabag-o ang Cagayan de Oro, daghan diay mi," Arcinal added.

[It is very effective because everyone participated in the activity, not just the people here in Cagayan de Oro but also those from Misamis Oriental. I can affirm that many of us are trying to transform Cagayan de Oro, not just myself.]

The top runners for the male category were Jay Dala, Miguel Galito, Renilo Pawal, Jasper Sarguil, and Rhavin Manos. Meanwhile, Apple Jane Padual, Mikah Sultan, Ronalyn Pura, Karis Ratunil, and Maria Teresa Espiritu emerged as top runners in the female category. DILG-10 also awarded medals to the top 100 runners of the event as a token of appreciation. (RTP/PIA-10)