Marawi City, Lanao del Sur — December 12, 2024
The Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) and the Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council (PADAC) of Lanao del Sur convened for their 2024 4th Quarter Meeting and Awarding Ceremony at the Social Hall, New Capitol Complex. Governor Mamintal Alonto Adiong, Jr., chaired the event, with Board Member Hon. Jalal “Bubuly” Decampong presiding over the discussions.
Key agenda items included security updates and anti-drug initiatives from major agencies, underscoring the councils’ commitment to maintaining peace and order across the province. Representatives from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Lanao del Sur Provincial Police Office (LDSPPO), and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) provided crucial updates to the assembly.
Security and Anti-Drug Reports
LTC Eduard L. Sia-ed of the 103rd Infantry Brigade reported on the AFP’s troop deployment, threat assessments, and ongoing military operations, providing an overall security evaluation of the province. His presentation highlighted the AFP’s steadfast role in securing Lanao del Sur against various threats.
Police Lt. Col. Juanito Jamis of LDSPPO detailed their anti-illegal drug operations and recent security activities, reflecting the police force’s efforts to combat drug-related crimes and maintain public safety.
PDEA-BARMM Regional Director Gil Castro emphasized the need for collective action in the fight against illegal drugs. He urged heightened vigilance at provincial entry points to deter drug trafficking activities. Castro’s call resonated with council members, reinforcing the importance of inter-agency cooperation in addressing the drug menace.
Special Resolutions and Open Forum
A significant resolution was presented by Local Government Operations Officer III Mustapha Said from MILG-LDS, requesting the inclusion of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in the implementation of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) within BARMM.
During the open forum, Municipal ADAC Focal Persons raised concerns about training for Kabataan Kontra Droga at Terorismo (KKDAT) and the General Intervention on Health and Wellbeing Awareness (GINHAWA) program. Intelligence Officer III Jocelyn Mary of PDEA Regional highlighted GINHAWA as a mandatory initiative for all local government units (LGUs). She stressed its role as an additional requirement for attaining drug-cleared or drug-free status under Dangerous Drugs Board Regulation No. 7, s. 2019.
Recognizing Excellence
A key highlight of the event was the awarding of the 2023 High-Performing ADACs. These councils were lauded for their outstanding efforts in implementing anti-drug abuse programs and fostering safe, drug-free communities. The recognition ceremony served as a testament to the collective dedication of LGUs and partner agencies in Lanao del Sur.
Looking Ahead
The 4th Quarter PPOC and PADAC Meeting and Awarding Ceremony reaffirmed Lanao del Sur’s unwavering commitment to peace, security, and anti-drug initiatives. With strengthened collaboration and renewed determination, the province aims to further enhance its efforts to safeguard the well-being of its citizens and communities.