BICOL, PHILIPPINES — The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has set a target to declare the entire Bicol Region free of illegal drugs within the next two years. As of the latest assessment, 3,024 of Bicol's 3,471 villages have been cleared of illegal drug activities.
According to Philippines News Agency, During the 1st Regional Drug Summit, Edgar Jubay, PDEA-5 regional director, reported the progress and highlighted the role of local government units and stakeholders in achieving these results. He expressed confidence that, with continued efforts and proper phasing, the region could be declared drug-free within the projected timeline. Jubay also mentioned that Catanduanes and Sorsogon are close to reaching a drug-cleared status, with only four villages each remaining. He emphasized the ongoing coordination with law enforcement to secure the region's borders against the movement of illegal drugs. Jubay further noted that maintaining a drug-cleared status not only reflects the dedication of local leaders but also enhances community safety and economic opportunities, potentially attracting more investors to the region.