IMUS CITY, Cavite (PIA) — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) underscored the crucial role that societal and spiritual leaders play in the government's efforts to combat the dangers of illegal drugs, particularly among the youth, under the Buhay Ingatan, Droga'y Ayawan (BIDA) anti-illegal drugs campaign.

During the BIDA Fun Run held here on Jan. 20, Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos emphasized the proactive collaboration between the DILG and the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) in organizing seminars for Parent-Teachers Associations (PTA). These seminars aim to equip parents with the knowledge to recognize signs of drug abuse and provide effective strategies for addressing such concerns.

“We are partnering with the Dangerous Drugs Board, and we would like to conduct seminars with the PTA so parents would know how to identify red flags and how to approach the problem,” Abalos said.

In partnership with the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM), Abalos highlighted the DILG's active engagement with religious groups to connect with grassroots communities.

He said the joint effort seeks to identify areas where the illegal drug trade is prevalent, fostering a comprehensive approach to address the issue at its roots.

“We will strengthen our ADAC (Anti-Drug Abuse Council). We are currently working with the NAPOLCOM for our religious groups where they will identify areas where there are drugs. This should be people power from the grassroots, and the only way to defeat this menace is through us coming together.”

Describing the drug problem as being passed down through generations, Abalos emphasized the importance of acknowledging its existence.

“We have many challenges; we inherited these problems. But it doesn't mean we will give up. What's important is that we acknowledge that there is a problem, [so] let's not turn a blind eye to the issues.”

Abalos added that seven out of every 10 persons deprived of liberty face drug-related charges.

“This means that one out of every three freed PDLs goes back to jail. The BJMP has estimated that 70 percent of PDLs face drug-related cases, while seven out of 10 are involved in [illegal] drugs. And that speaks to the gravity of the drug problem in our country,” the DILG chief said. (RF/PB, PIA Cavite)