ANGELES CITY, - The National Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ADAC) has acknowledged the exemplary performance of 18 local government units (LGUs) in Central Luzon in executing the national government's anti-illegal drugs campaign, as reported by the Department of the Interior and Local Government-Central Luzon (DILG-3) on Thursday.
According to a new release by the Philippines News Agency, the LGUs that received recognition include the municipalities of Dilasag, Dipaculao, and Maria Aurora in Aurora; Morong, Orion, and Pilar in Bataan; Doña Remedios Trinidad in Bulacan; Gabaldon in Nueva Ecija; Arayat in Pampanga; Capas, Pura, San Clemente, San Manuel, and San Jose in Tarlac; and Candelaria, Iba, San Marcelino, and San Narciso in Zambales. These LGUs achieved the highest scores across all indicators of the ADAC Performance Audit Award in the region, signifying excellence in all facets of the anti-illegal drug campaign.
According to Lawyer Anthony Nuyda, DILG-3 regional director, the LGUs underwent rigorous evaluation and performance audits conducted by the DILG, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Dangerous Drugs Board. The audit criteria encompassed the establishment of local ADACs, quarterly meetings, allocation of funds for anti-drug activities outlined in the Peace and Order and Public Safety (POPS) plan, implementation of ADAC plans and programs, support for ADACs in component local government units (LGUs), and innovation.
Outstanding ADACs were recognized based on their functionality, the sustainability of their "drug-cleared" or "drug-free" status, and the reduction of drug affectation within their communities.
In response to the recognition, Mayor Ronaldo Flores of Doña Remedios Trinidad expressed gratitude to the DILG-Bulacan and the Municipal Anti-Drug Abuse Council (MADAC) for their continuous efforts in maintaining a drug-free town. Capas Mayor Roseller Rodriguez commended the collective triumph as a shining example of what unity can achieve in promoting peace, order, and safety. Gabaldon Mayor Jobby Emata stated that the award validates the effective functioning of the municipal ADAC and their commitment to sustaining the fight against illegal drugs. Emata also highlighted that all 16 villages in Gabaldon are drug-free, and their efforts are focused on preventing youth involvement in illegal drugs.