PRO-7l 206 brgys in CV free from illegal drugs

CEBU, Philippines — The Police Regional Office-7 has reported significant progress in its Barangay Drug Clearing Program (BDCP), saying that in the first eight months of this year, the Regional Oversight for Drug Clearing Operations (RODCO) successfully declared 206 barangays in the region free from illegal drugs.

"The intricate process involves the arrest of all drug pushers in the barangay and the enrollment of all identified drug users in the barangay-based rehabilitation program," PRO-7 stated.

Additionally, 30 more barangays are scheduled for deliberation on September 26, 2024. These will be validated by the oversight committee, which includes members from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Health (DOH), local government units, and other government agencies.

From January 1 to August 31, 2024, PRO-7 conducted 4,818 anti-illegal drug operations that led to the confiscation of 144,149.89 grams of shabu, valued at P980,219,252, and the seizure of 1,630.02 grams of dried leaves, 28,061 plants, and 2,000 stalks of marijuana, with a total value of P6,057,802.40. Additionally, 1,055 ampules of Nubain, worth P121,325, were confiscated.

PRO-7 emphasized that these extensive arrests and drug seizures are part of an intensified, community-based, and human rights-adherent campaign in Central Visayas. This campaign strictly follows Police Operational Procedures and prioritizes the rule of law.

"The impact of these operations is significant, with 71% of the 3,003 barangays in Central Visayas now declared free from illegal drugs by the Regional Oversight for Drug Clearing Operations," PRO-7 added.

Brigadier General Anthony Aberin, the regional director of PRO-7, reaffirmed their commitment to the analytical campaign against illegal drugs, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with stakeholders and the community.

Aberin highlighted that their anti-criminality efforts will be relentless. "Our efforts in ending the menace of illegal drugs are gaining significant ground with the arrest of suspects and the massive confiscation of illegal substances," he stated.

He further noted that these operational successes have led to 71% of barangays in Central Visayas being declared drug-free, and this number is expected to rise as partnerships to eradicate illegal drugs are strengthened.

In related news, the Mandaue City government announced that Barangay Pagsabungan has become the 19th barangay in the city to be declared drug-free following RODCO's deliberation. As a result of the city's relentless campaign, 70% of Mandaue City's 27 barangays have now been declared drug-free. — /LPM