TACLOBAN CITY – About 30 local government units (LGUs) from the region were recognized for their exceptional efforts in combating illegal drugs during the 2024 Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ADAC) Performance Awards held on December 11, 2024, at The Manila Hotel in Ermita, Manila.
The annual award acknowledges LGUs with outstanding performance in implementing anti-drug initiatives and promoting safe, drug-free communities.
Among the awardees were the provincial government of Southern Leyte and its municipalities, namely, Bontoc, Hinunangan, Liloan, Limasawa, Pintuyan, Saint Bernard, San Juan, Silago, Sogod, Tomas Oppus, and Libagon.
The provincial government of Biliran and its towns of Almeria, Caibiran, Culaba, and Naval were also honored.
From Eastern Samar, the recognized LGUs included Balangiga, Can-avid, General MacArthur, and Jipapad. In Leyte, awardees were Alang-alang, Barugo, Hindang, and Baybay City.
Additionally, Jiabong and Paranas in Samar province, as well as the island municipalities of Biri and San Antonio in Northern Samar, received the same accolades.
In the independent city category, Ormoc City was also recognized for its exemplary anti-drug programs.
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region 8 Director Arnel Agabe emphasized the critical role of effective and functional Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (ADACs) in the fight against illegal drugs.
“The prevalence of illegal drugs poses a serious threat to the flourishing of our communities, which is why the DILG Region 8 has been unwavering in its efforts to foster highly functioning Anti-Drug Abuse Councils. This year’s awardees represent the most effective ADACs that Eastern Visayas has to offer, serving on the frontlines of our fight against illegal drugs and ensuring that our communities remain safe, healthy, and drug-free,” Agabe said.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
