Mayor John Riel Melo of Sominot emphasized the ongoing battle against illegal drugs.

"The battle against illegal drugs wala gihapon naundang. Maybe on record for this time drug-cleared ta pero kung atong subayon ang atong mga lungsod karun, mutuo ko nga daghan na kaayo ang nagbalik sa ginadili nga droga (The battle against illegal drugs is far from over. While we may be officially recorded as drug-cleared at this time, upon closer scrutiny, it is evident that many individuals have returned to prohibited substances)," Melo said.

He emphasized the need for local chief executives to strengthen their ADACs to prevent the resurgence of drug use. Melo acknowledged that many individuals have unfortunately returned to prohibited substances, prompting a call for concerted efforts to address the issue.

Sominot has been declared a drug-cleared municipality since 2019, boasting 288 recorded graduates who were once involved with drugs. The local government has allocated P1 million from its 20 percent development funds for the construction of Balay Silangan in 2024.

LGU Bayog, through the simultaneous launch of the DILG’s BIDA program, the National Drug Education Program (NDEP), Anti-Drug Symposium and Drug Resistance Education in various schools, has also earned national recognition for its ADAC's performance.

DILG Regional Director Paisal O. Abutazil highlighted the crucial role of local government units (LGUs) as the backbone of democracy. He commended their visionary leadership, saying that "the LGUs serve as the backbone of democracy, working to address the needs and aspirations of their constituents. Through visionary leadership, tireless education, and innovative approaches, you have transformed challenges into opportunities, paving the way for progress and prosperity at the grassroots level."