ZAMBOANGA CITY, May 6 (PIA) --The intensified anti-illegal drugs program of the Marcos administration dubbed ‘Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan’ (BIDA) has been launched in Zamboanga Peninsula through a Fun Run and Walk on Saturday, May 6, 2023.

Led by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)-9, the activity was attended by local chief executives and representatives of governors of the region, as well as personnel of various government offices and institutions, representatives from the barangays of Zamboanga City and students of schools and colleges and universities.

The program is expected to raise awareness on the ill-effects of dangerous drugs through Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) material, promote health and wellness; strengthen institutions in the implementation of drug demand reduction activities; and encourage multi-sectoral participation.

The activity was culminated by a program proper held in the WMSU gymnasium where Secretary Abalos Jr. together with government and non-government agencies and the Philippine National Police’s KASIMBAYAN Advocacy Support Groups signed a Pledge of Commitment.

KASIMBAYAN which stands for Kapulisan, Simbahan, at Pamayanan is  a revitalized program that bridges the PNP, the general public, faith-based organizations, and key stakeholders towards peaceful, safe, and protected communities.

To achieve a Drug Free Communities by 2023, all local government units are enjoined to actively take part in the series of activities to inform the citizens of the national and local government units’ initiatives to combat illegal drug use. (NBE/CCP/PIA9 with photos from DILG9)