As part of its continuous efforts to attain a drug-free city, the Local Government of San Fernando conducted a seminar on the revitalization of Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC) and their role in drug clearing operations.
The two-day seminar, held April 24-25 in Baguio City, was attended by local officials from all 35 barangays in the city.
This activity is in accordance with the Department of Interior and Local Government’s nationwide anti-drug campaign.
DILG Pampanga Cluster Team Leader Renalyn Iglesias discussed about MASA-MASID or Mamamayang Ayaw Sa Anomalya, Mamamayang Ayaw sa Ilegal na Droga, a community based program that promotes volunteerism to fight against crime, corruption and illegal drugs.
“We have already launched this program last year, but we want to reiterate the importance of the active involvement of barangay officials in the intensified war against drugs,” she added.
Iglesias furthered that grassroots leaders are obliged to provide a list of suspected users, pushers or protectors; initiate referral for drug treatment or rehabilitation; and conduct regular seminars and consultations for drug abuse victims.
For his part, Mayor Edwin ‘EdSa’ Santiago shared that based on the recent report from PNP and PDEA, 28 out of 35 barangays in the city are already drug cleared.
“Magandang balita po ito pero hindi ibig sabihin nito ay titigil na tayo, mas lalo pa nating paiigtingin ang ating mga programa upang tuluyan ng masugpo ang iligal na droga sa buong syudad,” he added.
“We should keep our plans aligned with the national government’s directives and redesign our system towards a better community,” Santiago said.
Other issues discussed during this year’s seminar include the proposal for Federalist Government in the Philippines, Health Policies in Barangay Governance, Rabies Awareness and Responsible Pet Ownership.
Meanwhile, also present during the activity were Vice Mayor Jimmy Lazatin, DILG Provincial Director Myrvi Fabia, City Councilors and LGU Department Heads.