DILG brings BIDA program to Zambo del Sur
AS the the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. continues its campaign against illegal drugs, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos led the rollout of the Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan (BIDA) program in Zamboanga del Sur on Thursday.
The BIDA Program launch was one of the highlights of the 71st Araw ng Zamboanga del Sur celebration at the Mega Gymnasium Provincial Government Complex, Dao, Pagadian City, which Abalos attended as Guest of Honor and Speaker.
In his message before Zamboanga residents, the DILG chief highlighted the critical role of local government units (LGUs) and other sectors of society in addressing the drug menace through education, prevention and rehabilitation to complement the relentless anti-drug operations of law enforcement agencies.
“Ang importante habang nanghuhuli ang mga pulis, tayong mga nasa LGU –mga barangay captain, konsehal, mayor, gobernador, bokal – community groups, religious leaders, parents, whole-of-nation approach dapat.
Bumaba tayo, tulungan natin ang pulis. It’s not only about supply reduction. But most importantly, it’s about demand reduction,” Abalos said.
Furthermore, the DILG Secretary congratulated Zamboanga del Sur on its 71st Charter Day celebration.
He also commended the leadership of Governor Victor J. Yu who focused his governance through H.E.A.R.T.S (Health, Education and Environment, Agriculture, Roads and Bridges, Tourism and Security.)
Abalos ended his message by inspiring local officials to continue heed the call of President Marcos for unity: “Iisang bangka tayo. We are given this opportunity, let’s make the most out of it.”
Named as one of the best government initiatives in Asia by international award-giving body GovMedia Awards, the BIDA Program has already been rolled out to over 700 LGUs nationwide since it was officially launched in November last year.
