By admin 
THE Davao City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) has intensified its anti-drug drive by recognizing drug-free barangays in the city through the Barangay Bida Kontra Ilegal na Droga.
The recognition took place during Monday’s flag-raising ceremony at Quezon Park.
As mandated by the City Council Resolution No. 02 Series of 2017, each barangay shall revive its own Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC) in support of initiatives aimed at peace and order, especially the reduction of use of illegal drugs and other substances.
The CSWDO recognized 15 barangays for their steadfast support, active participation and significant contributions to the successful and efficient initiatives of the Community-Based Rehabilitation and Aftercare Program to prevent and end drug abuse.
The 15 winners were Barangays Baliok, 36-D, Camansi, 30-C, Ula, Langub, Bago Oshiro, 13-B, Alambre, Biao Joaquin, Bato, Catigan, Baguio Proper, Mabuhay and Bantol.
Barangay Baliok in Talomo was declared the overall winner of the Barangay Bida Kontra Ilegal na Droga this year.
The winners also received a plaque, a certificate of recognition and a consolation prize.
Mayor Sebastian Duterte congratulated the recipients in a statement issued by Vice Mayor J. Melchor Quitain Jr. and said the award is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when the community comes together to fight illegal drugs.
“Today we recognize the top drug-sanctioned barangays in our city and our valued partners and agencies for their continued support and dedication to our anti-illegal drug advocacy and programs. Each of these barangays, as well as all barangays in our city, have shown outstanding commitment to creating safe and drug-free communities,” he said.
“May you continue to be a proactive participant in the change in our society and strive for a community that is drug-free and safe. Let us work hand in hand to strengthen our communities and protect future generations from the dangers of illegal drugs as we move towards a safer Davao City for the betterment of all Dabawenyos,” he added.
CSWDO head Julie Dayaday also said in a media interview that the award was a way to encourage barangays to monitor their neighborhoods and maintain a drug-free barangay.
“Nagakuha gyud ta og mga partners for our judges kay mas maayo man gud to’ng atoang mga partners of PDEA, PAO, Regional Trial Court nato (ang mag judge) para wala’y bias ug klaro gyud ang atoang paghatag og award (We actually recruit partners for our judges, as it is preferable that our partners from the Regional Trial Court, PDEA and PAO preside over the proceedings to ensure an impartial and transparent award),” she said.
The ceremony was also attended by barangay captains, their representatives and partner agencies. CIO