Isabela City, November 21, 2024 – In a significant stride toward community safety and drug prevention, ten barangays in Isabela City have been declared drug-cleared by the Regional Oversight Committee on Barangay Drug Clearing (ROCBDC). The declaration was finalized during the committee’s meeting on November 20, coinciding with the 2024 Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Week.
This year’s observance of the anti-drug week emphasizes a health-based approach to combat drug abuse, a theme resonating with the ongoing efforts of the Barangay Drug Clearing Program (BDCP) in Region IX. The session, chaired by Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Regional Director Maharani Gadaoni-Tosoc, brought together key stakeholders, including DILG Regional Director Paisal Abutazil, PNP Provincial Director Nordave Calderon, and representatives from the Department of Health-Zamboanga Peninsula Center for Health Development (DOH-ZPCHD).
A Milestone for Isabela City
The ten barangays achieving drug-cleared status are Busay, Cabunbata, Doña Ramona, Eastside, Isabela Proper, Panusulan, Sta. Barbara, Sunrise, Tabiawan, and La Piedad. Their recognition follows thorough evaluations and adherence to stringent criteria set by the BDCP.
Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman underscored the importance of community involvement in fostering drug-free neighborhoods. “This milestone reflects the collective effort of our barangay leaders, local government units, and the people of Isabela City. Together, we are building safer, healthier communities,” she stated.
Challenges and Continuing Efforts
The meeting also highlighted issues encountered during the implementation of SICAP-BADAC 3.0, a program aimed at strengthening the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (BADACs). IO I Liberty Perez presented the region’s progress under BDCP, detailing achievements and areas needing attention.
Closing remarks from DILG Regional Director Paisal Abutazil reinforced the commitment of stakeholders to sustaining anti-drug initiatives. “Our work doesn’t stop with these declarations. It is our duty to ensure that these barangays remain drug-free and serve as models for others,” he emphasized.
PDEA Regional Director Maharani Gadaoni-Tosoc adjourned the session, reaffirming the region’s unified resolve to combat drug abuse.
Looking Ahead
As Isabela City continues its efforts toward achieving a drug-free environment, the success of these ten barangays serves as an inspiration. The declaration is not just a recognition of achievement but a call to vigilance, ensuring that progress in drug-clearing initiatives is both sustained and expanded.
The declaration coincides with a broader national emphasis on addressing drug-related issues through health-focused strategies, signaling a shift in approach and renewed dedication to the well-being of communities.
