BALANGA CITY -- Strategic planning has significantly contributed in Bataan becoming a drug-cleared province.
During the Joint Provincial Peace and Order Council and Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council virtual meeting, Governor Albert S. Garcia enjoined member-agencies to continue setting their targets based on the data gathered every quarter to measure the success in preventing drug-related crimes and drug-abuse.
“Prevention is the name of the game,” Garcia said while emphasizing the importance of effective implementation of related programs.
In February this year, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency declared Bataan as drug-cleared province.
This was the second-time it was recognized after the first declaration in 2016.
The 11 towns and lone city of Bataan were also recognized for their conduct of drug clearing operations resulting to the declaration of all 237 barangays in the province as drug-cleared in accordance with the parameters set by Dangerous Drugs Board.
The parameters include a functional Barangay Anti-Illegal Drug Abuse Council, non-availability of drug supply, existence of drug awareness campaign, and voluntary and compulsory drug treatment and rehabilitation processing desk.
Meanwhile, Garcia encouraged the Philippine Army and other council-members to continue doing their share in maintaining the peace in the province and protecting the youth from the influence of insurgents and their front organizations.
Moreover, Garcia reported to council-members that measures have been undertaken to prevent road accidents particularly in Roman Highway.
“Additional safety signages, traffic lights and road clearing activities will be implemented to prevent further road accidents in the province thus, lessening the burden for the hospitals, doctors and families,” he added.
And lastly, Garcia thanked the frontliners especially doctors, nurses and uniformed personnel for their response in the fight against COVID-19 for the past eight months.
“Our province owes you a huge debt of gratitude,” he said. (PIA)