CADAC awarded as top anti-drug abuse board in Central Visayas

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City Anti-Drug Abuse Council was recognized by the Philippine National Police-7 as the most outstanding anti-drug abuse board among the ten cities in Central Visayas.

Lawyer Clarence Paul Oaminal, CADAC’s presiding officer, said that although the city faces a continuing crisis on illegal drugs, the award recognizes the board’s accomplishments on combating the menace in the city.

“During the culmination of PRO-7, they adjudged the Cebu City Anti-Drug Abuse Council as the most outstanding city anti-drug abuse council in Central Visayas,” he told reporters while presenting the plaque of recognition received on November 23. The awarding ceremony took place during the observance of Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Week.

“Di’ pasabot nga naa’y problema sa druga di na lang pud matagaan og award tungod kay ang mga requirements ani makita sa kon nag-function ba ang anti-drug abuse council,” he added.

Aside from CADAC, other anti-drug abuse councils given recognition include Barangay Labangon, Cebu City (barangay category); Tubigon municipality, Bohol province (municipal category); and Cebu province (province category).

Oaminal, on behalf of CADAC, was grateful for receiving such award.

He also took pride that the council meets at least twice a month with other government entities to heighten the city’s enforcement of laws related to the prevention and control of illegal substances.

“(Based on our activities,) we are proud to say that we, CADAC, meet twice a month minimum unya makita man na. In fact, naa tay klaro na mga programs and policies,” he said.

Further, Oaminal acknowledged the Cebu City Office for Substance Abuse Prevention, CADAC’s executive arm, headed by Dr. Alice Utlang. COSAP had been administering series of drug tests to government employees that led to their admission and detection.

Utlang has been optimistic that Cebu City will be drug-free, with the coordination of some government offices and the community as it aims to totally eradicate drug abuse.

Further, COSAP had been conducting seminars and lectures on the ill-effects of drugs and of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 in barangays and schools.

The city government, through its anti-drug units, likewise celebrated the Drug Abuse Prevention and Awareness month with various activities such as a fun run, school-based seminars, photo exhibit, among others.

The event is observed every third week of November pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 124, aimed to increase awareness among individuals on the unfavorable effects of drug and substance abuse.  (FREEMAN)