General Santos City — Hope continues to rise in the fight against illegal drugs in Region 12 as 114 barangays across Sarangani, Cotabato, and South Cotabato successfully retained their drug-cleared and drug-free status during the 23rd Regional Deliberation Meeting of the Regional Oversight Committee on Barangay Drug Clearing (ROCBDC) XII held on August 15, 2025.
The deliberation, chaired by PDEA Regional Director Benjamin C. Recites III, brought together key representatives from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Health (DOH), and local government units. The body thoroughly reviewed and validated the status of barangays under the Barangay Drug Clearing Program (BDCP).
Among the validated updates were:
- Kiamba, Sarangani – 17 barangays retained as drug-cleared, 1 verified drug-free
- Glan, Sarangani – 30 retained as drug-cleared
- Malapatan, Sarangani – 9 retained as drug-cleared, 2 verified drug-free
- Malungon, Sarangani – 31 retained as drug-cleared
- Antipas, Cotabato – 13 retained as drug-cleared
- Polomolok, South Cotabato – 11 retained as drug-cleared
These results reaffirm the collective efforts of local leaders, law enforcement, health workers, and communities in sustaining gains made in the government’s anti-drug campaign.
More than just numbers, the validation represents communities reclaiming peace and safety. For residents, the recognition signals not only the absence of illegal drugs but also the presence of stronger local initiatives—from preventive education to community-based rehabilitation and livelihood programs that help former drug dependents reintegrate into society.
Officials emphasized that the challenge now is not only maintaining drug-cleared status but also strengthening community resilience against possible resurgence. Sustained support for barangays—through health services, livelihood assistance, and continuous monitoring—remains vital.
With 114 barangays in Region 12 keeping their communities free from illegal drugs, the meeting highlighted a crucial lesson: the anti-drug fight thrives best when government agencies, LGUs, and the people work hand in hand.