ANTIQUE – The government’s holistic campaign eyes to end the drug menace in Antique, which is currently 99.66 percent free from illegal drugs.
The Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan (BIDA) campaign of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) was launched at the Evelio B. Javier Freedom Park in San Jose de Buenavista on Tuesday, June 13.
DILG assistant regional director Maria Calpiza Sardua urged government employees and the community to galvanize efforts under BIDA to raise awareness further against the adverse effects of illegal drugs.
“Continue to unite and keep an active watchful eye to sustain the status of Antique,” said Sardua.
Local government units (LGUs) are encouraged to establish Balay Silangan for the rehabilitation of drug personalities as well as allocate funds for their livelihood.
“Illegal drugs, as we know, are a big threat to peace and order,” Sardua said.
The launching of the BIDA campaign was followed by the opening of the Balay Silangan in the municipality of San Remigio.
Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) assistant provincial officer Jose Maria Real said the Balay Silangan, formerly an evacuation center of the LGU, could cater to at least seven clients.
“The Balay Silangan will cater to drug personalities who will undergo rehabilitation for at least one month,” he said.
Two possible clients are currently undergoing assessment, Real added.
Real also said 588 of the 590 barangays in Antique are cleared of illegal drugs or a 99.66 percent accomplishment under the Barangay Drug Clearing Program.
“The two barangays up for declaration are in Hamtic and Culasi towns,” he said.
Both San Remigio mayor Margarito Mission Jr. and Vice Mayor Eduardson Petinglay committed to supporting the campaign and allocating funds for the operation of the rehabilitation center. (PNA)/PN
