COTABATO CITY — The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA BARMM), led by Regional Director Gil Cesario P. Castro and Assistant Regional Director George Paul P. Alcovindas, conferred the prestigious Balangay Seal of Excellence to five municipalities across the region in recognition of their exemplary efforts in sustaining drug-free communities under the Barangay Drug Clearing Program (BDCP).
The municipalities of Datu Hoffer, Paglat, and Datu Abdullah Sangki in Maguindanao del Sur, along with Calanogas and Kapai in Lanao del Sur, were recognized for their outstanding implementation of the BDCP and continued advocacy for drug prevention, rehabilitation, and reintegration.
Maguindanao del Sur Awardees
Datu Hoffer and Paglat were declared drug-cleared on June 23, 2022, while Datu Abdullah Sangki followed on March 25, 2023. These municipalities have since maintained their status through comprehensive sustainability programs, including rehabilitation for drug surrenderers, community education, and strengthened local law enforcement initiatives.
“These municipalities have set a benchmark in the region, demonstrating that a whole-of-nation approach and inclusive governance are essential for building resilient, empowered, and drug-free communities,” said PDEA BARMM Director Castro.
Present during the conferment were Mayor Bai Bongbong Ampatuan of Datu Hoffer, Vice Mayor Sagandigan M. Gomonsang representing Paglat Mayor Raisa Pendatun Langkuno, and Councilor Anatholy Ian Eterno on behalf of Datu Abdullah Sangki Mayor Suharto Al Wali S. Mangudadatu. All three local leaders signed the Manifesto of Commitment, pledging to uphold their municipality’s drug-cleared status.
Lanao del Sur Honorees
In Lanao del Sur, Calanogas and Kapai were also granted the Balangay Seal of Excellence. Notably, Calanogas became the first municipality in the province to be declared drug-cleared on December 7, 2022, setting a precedent for other localities.
Mayor Abdul Hakim Benito of Calanogas and Councilor Jamila E. Succor, representing Kapai Mayor Aidah Gauraki, accepted the awards with pride and emphasized their continued resolve in promoting peace, development, and a drug-free society.
PDEA BARMM commended the collective efforts of local officials, law enforcement partners, and community stakeholders, noting that their vigilance and collaboration are key to the long-term success of the BDCP.
A Regional Model for Drug Prevention
The Balangay Seal of Excellence is the highest commendation awarded by PDEA to local government units that not only attain drug-cleared status but also exemplify sustained, holistic, and community-driven anti-drug programs.
Through the BDCP, PDEA BARMM continues to foster strong partnerships with LGUs, civil society, and national agencies in advancing peace, order, and public safety throughout the Bangsamoro region.
These latest awardees serve as living examples of what local leadership and community unity can accomplish in the ongoing fight against illegal drugs in Mindanao.