By Nimfa Estrellado BIDA Family Color Fun Run: Participants of all ages join hands (or should we say, hands covered in colorful powder!) led...
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| BIDA Family Color Fun Run: Participants of all ages join hands (or should we say, hands covered in colorful powder!) led by DILG Secretary Benjamin "Benhur" Abalos, Jr., Mayor Mark Alcala, and Vice Mayor Rhoderick "Dondon" Alcala. Local officials and community members alike come together, promoting unity and collaboration in the fight for a drug-free future. (Photo from Public Information Office - City of Lucena) |
LUCENA CITY, Quezon - Lucena City took a two-pronged approach to tackling community safety and drug prevention on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, with the launch of "People's Day 2024" in Barangay Ibabang Iyam. The program not only delivered essential services to residents, but also unveiled a revitalized police program focused on strengthening police-community ties.
Over 400 residents benefited from free anti-rabies vaccination for pets, haircuts, massages, notary services, civil registration assistance, emergency preparedness kits, health check-ups, and more. This program aligns with the "City Hall in the Barangay" concept, fostering closer ties between the government and the community.
The event coincided with the BIDA Family Color Fun Run, highlighting the importance of families in promoting a drug-free environment. DILG Secretary Abalos commended Lucena City's efforts and emphasized the need for collective action against illegal drugs. He stressed the importance of reporting suspicious activities and community involvement.
Mayor Mark Alcala and Vice Mayor Roderick "Dondon" Alcala welcomed Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin "Benhur" Abalos, Jr., who played a key role in delivering various services, trainings, and programs offered by the city government. DILG Regional Director Ariel Iglesia and Vilma De Torres, OIC-HUC DILG Director of the city, joined them alongside other representatives from the national government.
In his speech, Secretary Abalos emphasized the importance of collective action in fighting illegal drugs. He encouraged residents to report suspicious activities. Using impactful visuals, he illustrated the destructive effects of illegal drugs on lives and communities.
This powerful message underscored the need for everyone to work together to create a safer and healthier environment. Events like the BIDA Family Color Fun Run further exemplify this collaborative spirit, bringing the community together to actively participate in building a drug-free future.
Abalos also highlighted the role of national and police authorities in ensuring the success of anti-drug campaigns and encouraged everyone to report any suspicious activities related to illegal drugs. By fostering a sense of unity and cooperation among residents, the event aims to strengthen the community's resolve in fighting against drug abuse and promote overall well-being.
The event also marked the launch of the revitalized police program in the barangay. Led by Police Community Relations Director PMGEN Edgar Allan Okubo, Lucena PNP Chief PLTCOL Ruben Ballera, Jr., Area Police Command-Southern Luzon Commander PLTGEN Rhoderick Armamento, and Quezon Police Provincial Director PCOL Ledon Monte.
The program aims to strengthen the bond between police and residents. By deploying officers directly in barangays, the initiative allows for a better understanding of community concerns and collaborative problem-solving.
According to Okubo, this partnership will lead to a safer and more secure environment for all residents in Quezon Province. Additionally, the program will also focus on building trust and cooperation between law enforcement and the community to further enhance peace and order.
He stressed the importance of working together to address issues and create a positive impact on the community. Okubo highlighted the significance of community involvement in maintaining a peaceful and drug-free environment.
DILG Secretary Abalos was presented with a plaque of recognition by the Lucena LGU for his continuous support and commitment to the anti-drug campaign in the province. The partnership between the police force and local government officials has been instrumental in ensuring the success of various initiatives aimed at creating a safer and drug-free community.
The day's activities coincided with the BIDA Family Color Fun Run, which further emphasized the importance of family involvement in promoting a healthy and drug-free environment. The event brought together families from different barangays to participate in a fun and meaningful activity that supports the BIDA program's objectives.
Thousands of BIDA supporters rallied in a vibrant event, backed by Lucena City officials, Provincial Administrator Manuel Butardo, and various government leaders. The BIDA program is a crucial pillar in the Philippines' fight against illegal drugs within communities.
The program tackles drug use through a multi-pronged approach, prioritizing awareness and community engagement. Educational campaigns leverage social media, television, radio, and print media to effectively spread the message.
Launched in 2023, BIDA goes beyond traditional law enforcement. It promotes healthy activities for young people, encourages collaboration between communities and local government, and raises drug awareness through media campaigns.
This shift from solely punitive measures to a comprehensive strategy empowers communities and offers positive alternatives, aiming to prevent drug use at its source. BIDA recognizes the complex social and economic factors behind drug problems and seeks to address them from the ground up.
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