ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) – The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)-9 underscored the critical role of Balay Silangan reformation centers in providing intervention programs for small-time pushers, helping them reform and reintegrate into society.
During the joint meeting of the Regional Development Council 9 and the Regional Peace and Order Council 9, PDEA-9 Regional Director Maharani R. Gadaoni-Tosoc presented significant updates on the anti-illegal drug campaign in Region 9. He called on all government agencies and LGUs to prioritize the creation of these centers as part of a comprehensive approach to combat the drug problem.

In a recent operation in Zamboanga City, PDEA-9 and the Philippine National Police (PNP) seized approximately 21.4 kilograms of suspected shabu, valued at Php 145.5 million, marking the largest drug haul in Region 9’s history. The operation led to the arrest of four individuals and the confiscation of a .45 caliber pistol, magazine, and live ammunition. The suspects face charges under RA 9165 and RA 10591.
This seizure dealt a major setback to the region’s illegal drug trade network, disrupting supply chains and preventing narcotics from reaching local communities. PDEA and PNP remain committed to dismantling drug syndicates and holding those responsible for the drug trade accountable.
Meanwhile, Mayor John Dalipe vowed to strengthen the local government’s drug-clearing efforts as he urged barangays to exhaust all efforts to attain the drug-cleared status during the Regional Oversight Committee on Barangay Drug Clearing (ROCBDC).
ROCBDC Program declared four more barangays in Zamboanga City specifically in Dulian-Upper Bunguiao, Latuan, Lubigan, and Sinubong as drug-cleared. This brings the total number of drug-cleared barangays in Zamboanga City to 28.
Dir. Tosoc stressed the need for continuous monitoring of recovering Persons Who Use Drugs (PWUDs) to prevent relapse and support for anti-drug advocacy activities. (EDT/MLE/PIA Region 9-Zamboanga City)