Negros Oriental – The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) announced on Tuesday that only 37 of the 557 villages in Negros Oriental remain classified as drug-affected. This significant progress follows a concerted effort by various agencies to combat the drug problem in the province. PDEA-Negros Oriental provincial chief Jane Tuadles, speaking at a Kapihan sa PIA forum, revealed the details of this achievement.
According to Philippines News Agency, Tuadles, the reduction from 527 affected barangays in 2017 to the current number is a result of the collaborative work of local government units, the PDEA, the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and barangay officials. Fernando Martinez, head of the Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council, also mentioned at the forum that localities such as Sta. Catalina, Canlaon City, and Pamplona are being prioritized to be declared drug-free this year, pending the fulfillment of all requirements.
In 2023, the volume of suspected shabu seized in Negros Oriental has significantly decreased compared to last year. Tuadles attributed this to intensified anti-illegal drug operations, which have led to a reduced supply of shabu on the streets. This year, a total of 355 operations were conducted, resulting in the arrest of 382 individuals and the seizure of five kilograms of suspected shabu. In contrast, 2022 saw the seizure of 16 kilograms from 308 operations. The forum, highlighting efforts in drug prevention and control, was part of the activities for Drug Prevention and Control Week, held every third week of November.