Receives Balangay Seal of Excellence for Anti-Drug Campaign
CAMP ALAGAR, Cagayan de Oro City – The Municipality of Naawan, Misamis Oriental, made history on June 9, 2025, as it became the first local government unit (LGU) in the province to receive the prestigious Balangay Seal of Excellence, a recognition given to LGUs with a 100% drug-cleared status in all their barangays.
The award was formally conferred by the Regional Oversight Committee on Barangay Drug Clearing (ROCBDC) during a ceremony held at Camp Alagar. The Balangay Seal of Excellence is reserved for LGUs that have successfully declared all their barangays as free from illegal drug activities, following a rigorous multi-agency validation process.
A drug-cleared status means there is no reported presence of drug pushers, users, dens, laboratories, or plantations within the locality. It also indicates the successful implementation of necessary interventions such as rehabilitation, community support programs, and law enforcement cooperation.
Gracing the event were Atty. Benjamin G. Gaspi, Regional Director of PDEA RO-10 and Chair of the ROCBDC, along with key officials from partner agencies: DILG-10 Assistant Regional Director Yvette T. Sunga, CESO V; PCOL Ramil Waper of PNP PRO-10, Chief of RCADD 10; and Ms. Ma. Dolores Mercado representing DOH-10.
As of June 13, 2025, a total of 1,575 barangays—equivalent to 84.40% of the 1,886 drug-affected barangays in Northern Mindanao—have already been cleared of illegal drugs. Regionwide, 33 municipalities and one city have achieved drug-cleared status.
PBGEN Jaysen C. De Guzman, Regional Director of PRO10, commended Naawan’s leadership and its residents for their united and proactive stance against illegal drugs.
“The people of Naawan have shown that strong community cooperation and committed leadership can overcome the threat of illegal drugs. Our support remains firm for every LGU in Northern Mindanao that is working to protect their communities. Together with our partner agencies, we will continue pushing for a drug-free region,” De Guzman said.
The recognition of Naawan not only marks a milestone for the municipality but also serves as a model for other LGUs in the region striving for a drug-free status.