BIDA Program Marks First Year with Significant Drug-Free Milestones
On March 26, 2024, Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos reported the successful outcomes of the first year of the Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan (BIDA) program. A remarkable 28,000 barangays have been declared drug-free, with 95,790 arrests made, and P21 billion worth of illegal drugs seized.
The announcement came during the ‘Lakad Kontra Droga, BIDA Tayong Lahat!’ event at the Mall of Asia, which celebrated the program’s anniversary. The campaign has conducted 75,831 operations and charged 177 police officers with drug-related offenses.
Secretary Abalos emphasized the ongoing commitment to the program, stating that drug-free barangays will continue to be monitored to prevent relapse. He also highlighted the rehabilitation efforts, noting 1,534 local government units have implemented community-based drug rehabilitation programs, benefiting thousands.
The event was supported by notable figures, including former Senator Manny Pacquiao and San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora, and was attended by various sectors, reaffirming their support for the anti-drug initiative.
Abalos also addressed the stigma against former drug users, announcing collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment to provide employment opportunities for rehabilitated individuals. He stressed the importance of community acceptance and the role of character-building in the fight against drugs.
The BIDA program’s future focuses on innovation and character development, with a vision to create a drug-free environment for the nation’s children.