PDEA Regional Office BARMM

“PDEA-PNP YIELDS 3.4 MILLION PESO WORTH OF SHABU IN LANAO DEL SUR DRUG BUST” HIGH-VALUE TARGET ARRESTED”

Cotabato City—PDEA Regional Special Enforcement Team (RSET) together with 4th Special Action Battalion 41 Special Action Company PNP Special Action Force, 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Batallion, and Malabang Municipal Police Station yielded three million four hundred thousand pesos (P3.4M) of Shabu and arrested a high-value target in the vicinity of Barangay Bacayawan, Malabang, Lanao del Sur on August 21, 2024.

Confiscated and recovered were one (1) piece zip lock plastic sachet containing Shabu weighing more or less 500 grams with a standard drug price of ₱3400,000.00, buy-bust money, and two (2) pieces of identification cards of the suspect.

The apprehended suspect was identified as Amenola T. Sabdullah, also known as Amenola, 40 years old, male, and a resident of Barangay Tuboc, Malabang, Lanqondel Sur. The suspect is now under the custody of the PDEA BARMM Jail Facility while awaiting inquest proceedings for violation of RA 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

"6.8 MILLION PESO WORTH OF SHABU NETS IN COTABATO CITY DRUG BUST;
2 HIGH-VALUE TARGETS ARRESTED”

Cotabato City-State Agents of the PDEA Maguindanao Provincial Office together with City Drug Enforcement Unit CCPO, Maguindanao Maritime Police Station, Police Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG) SOU BAR, Cotabato City Public Safety Office score anew after the seizure of six million eight hundred pesos (P6.8M) worth of Shabu in a buy-bust operation along Governor Gutierrez Avenue, Rosary Heights 9, Cotabato City on August 20, 2024.

Mayor Bruce Matabalao along with Dir Gil Cesario P Castro commends all the operating units for their relentless efforts, which resulted in the success of the anti-drug operation. The confiscation of this high volume of dangerous drugs saves many lives of Cotabaños.

CCPO City Director PCol Joel S. Estaris, in his interview, gives a stern warning that illegal drug peddlers have no place in Cotabato City. The PDEA, PNP, and, in collaboration with the City Prosecutors Office headed by Atty. Mariam April Mastura will work closely to ensure the conviction of these drug personalities.

Confiscated and recovered were one (1) piece open dark blue foil plastic bag with the label "BLUEBEARD COFFEE ROASTETS" containing a self-sealing transparent plastic bag with the label “Power Very Good” containing Shabu weighing more or less 1,000 grams with a standard drug price of Php6,800,000.00, buy-bust money, two (2) units of mobile phones, and identification cards.

The arrested suspects were identified as Ebrahim Guinda Esmael, also known as Tol, 43 years old, male; and, Dali Malogayak Abdulkarim, also known as Dali, 49 years old, male. Both are residents of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte. They are now under the custody of the PDEA BARMM Jail Facility while awaiting an inquest proceeding for violation of RA 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

‘’OVER 1 M WORTH OF SHABU SEIZED IN A SIMULTANEOUS DRUG BUSTS IN MDS; 5 HIGH-VALUE TARGETS ARRESTED’’

Cotabato City- Joint operatives of PDEA RO BARMM Drug Enforcement Officers, along with the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) BARMM, NBI BARMM, Philippine Army, and PNP, successfully arrested high-value targets and shut down a drug den in a simultaneous buybust operations in Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur on August 17, 2024, which resulted in the seizure of seventeen (17) pieces of heat sealed transparent plastic sachets of suspected Shabu with standard drug price of ₱516,800 from alias Dido (drug den maintainer), alias Jojo, alias Anton, and alias Jerry in Barangay Ambadao, Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur. The team successfully dismantled a drug den and recovered the buy-bust money, assorted drug paraphernalia, two (2) units of mobile phones, and five (5) pieces of notebooks containing transactions, cut pieces of plastic teabag and identification cards.

In a separate operation, in Barangay Montay, Datu Piang, the team successfully seized seventeen (17) pieces of heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets of suspected Shabu with standard drug price of ₱510,000.00 from Dido Akad Lampay (M**F Platoon Commander). However, his other cohort, later identified as alias Markay, was able to elude arrest after sensing the presence of incoming operatives. Also recovered during the operation were buy-bust money, assorted drug paraphernalia, one (1) M60 rifle, one (1) BAR unit, magazines, and assorted live ammunition.

The arrested suspects will be facing charges for violation of RA 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, including RA 10591, against Dido Lampay and his cohorts, alias Markay, who remained at large.

"I am truly honored and grateful that the success of this operation was made possible with collaborative efforts extended by the Philippine Army, PNP, and the local government units. This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to the commitment and collaboration of the Philippine Army, PNP, and local government units in upholding the law and ensuring the safety of the community, free from the illegal drug menace. We, PDEA, AFP, and PNP, will continue our pursuit, particularly targeting possible local terrorist groups who are actively engaged in the proliferation of illegal drugs," Regional Director Gil Cesario Castro said.

“PDEA-PNP-AFP ARRESTS REGIONAL TARGET LISTED PERSONALITY; DRUG DEN MAINTAINER & OTHER COHORTS; DRUG DEN SHUTS DOWN IN BASILAN DRUG BUST”


Cotabato City—Joint operatives of PDEA RO BARMM- Basilan Provincial Office, Lamitan City Police Station, 18th Infantry Battalion Philippine Army, 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company, and 1403rd Regional Mobile Force Company Regional Mobile Force Batallion 14 Basilan scored anew after the arrests of Regional Target Listed Drug personality, drug den maintainer and his cohorts during a buy-bust operation at t Calle Visaya, Barangay Malinis, Lamitan City, Basilan on August 14, 2024.

Confiscated and recovered were six (6) pieces of heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets of methamphetamine hydrochloride, or Shabu, weighing more or less 5 grams, worth ₱34,000.00, buy-bust money, two (2) units of mobile phone, and assorted drug paraphernalia.

The apprehended suspects were identified as Carlito Manolong dela Cruz also known as Buboy, (Regional Target Listed/Drug Den Maintainer), also known as Patrick, and other cohorts namely: Falcasantos Tani also known as Pat, Reynante Opawun Villamil also known as Bete/Bibi and Winefred Brosas Aquino also known as Jhay-Jhay. They are now temporarily detained at the Lamitan CPS, Basilan while awaiting an inquest proceeding for violation of RA 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

“DRUG DEN DISMANTLED; DRUG DEN MAINTAINER & 2 OTHERS BUSTED IN COTABATO CITY”

Cotabato City—Drug Enforcement Officers of PDEA RO BARMM, together with the 5th Special Operation Unit and Maguindanao Maritime Police Station, City Intelligence Unit (CIU), CCPO, City Drug Enforcement Unit (CDEU), CCPO, and Cotabato City Public Safety Office, paid off after a successful buybust operations in Malagapas, Rosary Heights 10, Cotabato City, on August 8, 2024, which resulted in the dismantling of a drug den, arrest of the drug den maintainer and two other cohorts.

The successful operation was the result of the City Mayor's drive in the anti-drug campaign through his BADAC Council Chairman Najm Nur Gani Sinarimbo, which actively supports and implements the barangay drug-clearing operation.

Mayor Mohammad Bruce Matabalao along with PDEA Regional Director Gil Cesario Castro commends all the operating units, the concerned citizens and the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council for their relentless efforts to suppress the illegal drug problem in the city.

“This operation serves as a clear warning to those who engage in illegal drug activities in Cotabato City that law enforcement agencies will not rest until drug violators are brought to jail”, Director Castro added.

Confiscated and recovered were eleven (11) pieces of heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets weighing more or less 16 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride, or Shabu, worth ₱108,800.00, buy-bust money, various drug paraphernalia, one (1) piece of brown wallet and assorted identification cards.

The apprehended suspects were identified as Terry Pananggalon Cando, also known as Datu/Tho/Piolo, (drug den maintainer), 35 years old, male; Ariel Candol Pampliega, also known as Aying, 44 years old, male; and, Tomas Ramon Mario Lago Martinez Jr., also known as Butchuk, 27 years old, male. The trio are now detained at the PDEA Jail Facility while awaiting an inquest proceeding for violation of RA 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Suspect Cando was previously arrested for violation of the anti-drug law in 2018 in Cotabato City.

Thank you very much Sir JF Starman UnsonJF Miciano Unson for always supporting our anti-drug campaign❣️🙏🙏🙏💪💪

COTABATO CITY — An inter-agency regional committee has declared the seaside Datu Blah Sinsuat town in Maguindanao del Norte free from illegal drugs, further boosting its well-acknowledged stature as the most peaceful town in the province.

Datu Blah Sinsuat, covering 13 beachfront barangays, is also touted as Maguindanao del Norte's new investment hub, its coastline dotted with resorts frequented by beachgoers from provinces around and from Cotabato City, the capital of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

Gil Cesario Castro, director of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-BARMM, told reporters on Thursday that Datu Blah Sinsuat was declared last Tuesday as “drug-cleared” by the Regional Oversight Committee on Barangay Drug Clearing, or ROCBDC, after a series of evaluation processes and deliberations by members in recent weeks.

The ROCBDC is composed of representatives from units of the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, from peace advocacy blocs, and from other state law-enforcement agencies.

The mayor of Datu Blah Sinsuat, Marshall Sinsuat, said credit for their feat should go to members of their multi-sector Municipal Peace and Order Council, to the personnel the Datu Blah Sinsuat Municipal Police Station, to all of their barangay chairpersons, to the Army’s 6th Infantry Division and the Philippine Navy’s 1st Marine Brigade.

“The local communities have also been very supportive of our municipal anti-narcotics campaign and so we have this tag now as `drug-cleared’ municipality,” Sinsuat said.

Datu Blah Sinsuat is most known in the Bangsamoro region as the most peaceful municipality in Maguindanao del Norte, a description frequently emphasized by reporters of radio outfits in Central Mindanao each time it is mentioned in news reports.

CTTO:

BARMM ROCBDC DECLARES DATU BLAH SINSUAT, MDN AS A DRUG-CLEARED MUNICIPALITY

Cotabato City—Today, July 30, 2024, the Regional Oversight Committee on Barangay Drug Clearing (ROCBDC) declared the municipality of Datu Blah Sinasuat a drug-cleared municipality during its 7th ROCBDC Meeting for CY 2024 through a blended face-to-face and Zoom platform held at the PDEA Regional Office BARMM, Pedro Colima Hill, Rosary Heights 1, Cotabato City.

The ROCBDC declared the municipality as drug-cleared after passing the parameters set forth by DDB Regulation No. 4, Series of 2021, as well as the presentation of the LGU's best practices, innovations, sustainability, and reintegration programs for the PWUDs.

The Committee also issued a resolution for the twenty-one (21) barangays in the province of Basilan with the certified inventory of drug personalities.

The meeting was presided over by ROCBDC Chairman Director Gil Cesario P. Castro and attended by other committee members’ representatives, Atty. Marvin D. Mokamad, IAS Director of the MILG; PMaj Katherine Paydoen of PNP PROBAR; Ms. Norhata Enampadan of MOH BARMM; and, PLGU PADAC focals of the six provinces, including the Special Geographic Area (SGA).

Likewise, in attendance were the applicant LGUs' Local Chief Executive, Chief of Police, Municipal Health Officer and Barangay Chairman.

Director Castro pointed out that the success of LGU Datu Blah Sinsuat in the war against illegal drugs serves as a testament to the dedication and collaborative efforts of the LGU and other BDCP duty-bearers through collective action.

RD CASTRO ATTENDS THE BARMM 3RD REGIONAL PEACE AND ORDER COUNCIL MEETING

Cotabato City—PDEA Regional Director Gil Cesario P. Castro, along with Assistant Regional Director Jill A. Salamanca-Verceles and Investigation Agent V Joseph Theodore B. Atila, attended the 3rd Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) meeting for the calendar year 2024, which was presided over by BARMM Chief Minister AHOD B. EBRAHIM, ALHAJ, RPOC Chairman. The meeting was held at Bajao Hall, Office of the Chief Minister, Bangsamoro Government Center, Cotabato City, today at around 9:00 a.m. on July 29, 2024.

Director Castro expressed gratitude to the BARMM government through BTA member Jamel Macacua for passing a resolution commending PDEA BARMM for its notable anti-drug accomplishments in the first semester of this year. He then highlighted the drug situation in BARMM and the agency's plans and programs focusing on supply, demand, rehabilitation, and reintegration. Increasing the conviction rate in BARMM is also a priority, with strengthened coordination and collaboration with the judiciary being of vital importance, among others.

Also joined were the council members who gave an update on peace and security in their respective agencies, offices, and ministries.

“This significant event, with the presence of key officers, was also a testament to the dedication and commitment of all involved in striving for peace and security. The commendation received for PDEA BARMM for its anti-drug accomplishments reflects the impactful efforts being made. It's clear that together, with strengthened coordination and collaboration, positive change and increased conviction rates can be achieved. Let us continue to work together towards a peaceful and drug-free future for the BARMM community. “Director Castro added.

RD CASTRO INKS PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT WITH MSSD BARMM

Cotabato City- Regional Director Gil Cesario P. Castro, along with Atty. Roman Mayo Palma, Legal Officer, and Investigation Agent V Joseph Theodore B. Atila, Chief Operations, attended the National Disability Rights Week, with the theme “Promoting Inclusion: Celebrating Abilities and Advocating Access”, initiated by the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) BARMM at San Isidro Ave. Rosary Heights 10, Cotabato City, on July 17, 2024.

Highlight of the celebration was the signing of the Partnership Agreement between the Ministry of Social Services and Development and other stakeholders emphasizing the commitment to providing services for the betterment of the Center for Persons with Disabilities.


Also joining the ceremony were Atty. Raisa H. Jajurie, Minister of the Ministry of Social Services and Development, Sandra B. Macacua, Chief, Protective Social Welfare Division, Dra. Maureen Mataw, of CRMC Dental Unit, ALS District, TESDA Cotabato City, and other stakeholders.

OVER 1.3 MILLION PESO WORTH OF SHABU SEIZED FROM A HIGH-VALUE TARGET IN COTABATO CITY

Cotabato City—State Agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency BARMM, together with the Cotabato City Drug Enforcement Unit (CDEU), Regional Drug Enforcement Unit (RDEU), Cotabato City Police Station 1, and Public Safety of Cotabato City, successfully arrested a high-value target and confiscated MOL 200 grams of Shabu during a buy-bust operation in Jose Lim, Barangay Poblacion 5, Cotabato City on July 17, 2024.

Confiscated and recovered were two (2) pieces of knot-tied transparent plastic bags containing Shabu weighing MOL 200 grams with a standard drug price of ₱1,360,000.00, buy-bust money, one (1) unit mobile phone, one (1) piece leatherette wallet, and an identification card.

The arrested suspect was identified as Najer Cosain Arumpac, also known as Supremo, 26 years old, male, with known addresses at Barangay Calaan, Buldon, Maguindanao del Norte, and Barangay Emie Punod, Marawi City, Lanao Del Sur. His illegal drug distribution covers nearby towns of Lanao Del Sur and as far as Cotabato City.

Arumpac is now detained at the PDEA RO BARMM Jail Facility while awaiting inquest proceedings for violation of RA 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

P6.8-M worth shabu seized in PDEA Lanao del Sur operation Agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency seized P6.8 million worth of shabu from a dealer entrapped in Barangay Western in Wao, Lanao del Sur on Friday.

"PDEA BASILAN DRUG BUST OPERATION ARRESTS DRUG SUSPECT; 34K WORTH OF SHABU SEIZED”


Cotabato City- Another drug suspect was successfully arrested and seized thirty-four thousand pesos worth of methamphetamine hydrochloride, or Shabu by elements of the PDEA Provincial Office led by Agent Marlon P. Santos, together with Lamitan City Police Station, the 18th Infantry Battalion Philippine Army, 1st Police Mobile Force Company, and the 1403rd RMFC RMFB 14 Basilan, during a buy-bust operation at Sitio Talisay, Barangay Kulaybato, Lamitan City, on July 12, 2024.

The apprehended suspect was identified as Usman Johani Rabbani, also known as Chong, 41 years old, who is now under the custody of Lamitan City Police Station. The suspect will be facing charges for violation of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002.

Confiscated evidence were five (5) pieces of heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets of Shabu weighing more or less 5 grams with a standard drug price of ₱34, 000.00, buy-bust money, various drug paraphernalia, and identification cards.

“6.8 MILLION PESO WORTH OF SHABU SEIZED IN LANAO DEL SUR BUY-BUST OPERATION; HIGH-VALUE TARGET ARRESTED”

COTABATO CITY—elements of PDEA Lanao Del Sur Provincial Office led by Agent Niel Liansing, together with the Delta Company 55th Infantry Battalion, under the overall direct supervision of Regional Director Gil Cesario Castro of PDEA RO BARMM, successfully conducted a buy-bust operation in Barangay Western, Wao, Lanao Del Sur on July 11, 2024, which resulted in the seizure of MOL 1 kilo Shabu with estimated standard drug price of ₱6,800,000.00, and arrest of Alimar Mama Matalicop also known as Alimar/Bai, 19 years old, male and a resident of Barangau Kadingilan, Wao, Lanao Del Sur.

The suspect is now under the custody of the PDEA BARMM Jail Facility awaiting inquest proceedings for violation of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

COTABATO CITY INTENSIFIES DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE PROGRAM

Cotabato City— To ensure a drug-free environment for personnel and employees of the local government unit of Cotabato City, Mayor Mohammad Ali C. Matabalao initiated an intensified Drug-Free Workplace Program Orientation for all department heads and employees on July 11, 2024.

Mayor Matabalao envisions a safer and healthier environment for personnel in the workplace free from illegal drugs.

During the discussion, personnel from different departments of the City actively participated in the program, asking questions, and clarifications.

Cotabato City LGU has long been implementing and institutionalizing a Drug-Free Workplace Program. It has now intensified through increasing the employees' awareness of the national, regional and city drug situation, the liability of an individual who gets involved in illegal drug activities, the effects of using illegal drugs and its consequences, and the importance of a drug-free workplace, among others.

Regional Director Gil Cesario P. Castro of PDEA RO BARMM, represented by Assistant Regional Director Jill A. Salamanca-Verceles, commended Mayor Matabalao and the Cotabato City LGU for this initiative, dedication, and foresight.

“As we move forward, let us remember that a drug-free workplace is not just about enforcing rules; it is about creating a supportive environment where employees feel valued, safe, and empowered to perform their best. It is about providing access to resources, support systems, and educational programs that can help prevent drug abuse and assist those in need”, Director Salamanca- Verceles said.

“DRUG PERSONALITY NEUTRALIZED BY PDEA BARMM IN MAGUINDANAO DEL SUR; P340K WORTH OF SHABU SEIZED”


COTABATO CITY—Operatives of PDEA BARMM Drug Enforcement Officers, together with the
40 Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, RDEU BAR, PDEU Maguindanao PPO, and Shariff Aguak MPS, successfully neutralized a drug personality and seized three hundred forty thousand pesos worth of Shabu after a buy-bust operation at Barangay Poblacion II, Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao del Sur on July 11. 2024.

Upon the consummation of the transaction, the target suspects, who was later identified as Haider Ali Dimacisil also known as Den and Alias Dats sensed that they were dealing with PDEA operatives and immediately fired upon the operating team, which resulted in a short firefight resulting in the wounding of the suspect. He was immediately brought to the nearest hospital for medical treatment; however, he was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician. Meanwhile, the suspect's other cohort identified as Alias Dats managed to elude arrest.

On the other hand, during the firefight, one of the operating team member sustained a gun shot wound and was immediately brought to the hospital and is now in stable condition.

Recovered and confiscated were one (1) piece of heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet of methamphetamine hydrochloride, known as Shabu, weighing more or less 50 grams with a standard drug price of three hundred forty thousand pesos, (₱340,000.00), and the buy-bust money.

OPERATIONAL BALAY SILANGAN REFORMATION CENTER LAUNCH IN SOUTH UBIAN, TAWI-TAWI

Today, July 9, 2024, PDEA BARMM Regional Director Gil Cesario P Castro graced the launching and inauguration of the Balay Silangan Reformation Center initiated by Mayor Hadzri H. Matba in Barangay Nusa Nusa, South Ubian, Tawi-Tawi.

Fifteen individuals in this municipality will benefit from various government programs aimed at transforming their lives and making them more productive individuals.

Other attendees at the event included: PCOL Rodulfo T. Inoy, the Provincial Director of Tawi-Tawi PPO, representatives of the Provincial Governor, Hon. Yshmael I Sali, and Hon. Congressman Dimzar Matba Sali, MHO, MSSD, MBLT, PCG, MBHTE, members of the Religious Sector, and Barangay Chairmen.

Director Castro pointed out that the newly launched Reformation Center marks a new chapter of hope and opportunity for the South Ubian community. He likewise expressed deep gratitude to the LGU for their active support in the national anti-drug campaign.

"I am optimistic that South Ubian's proactive efforts will inspire other local government units to pave the way for a Drug-Free Tawi-Tawi." Director Castro said.

PDEA RO BARMM HAILS AS BEST REGIONAL OFFICE DURING PDEA 22ND ANNIVERSARY

Cotabato City- PDEA Regional Office in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) was awarded the “Best Regional Office” accolade under the Gamma Cluster during the 22nd-anniversary celebration of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), with the theme: “PDEA Kaisa sa Bagong Pilipinas sa Pagkamit ng Bagong Bukas”, on July 4, 2024.

PDEA RO BARMM held its simultaneous celebration with the PDEA National Headquarters at the Heroes Hall, PDEA Building in Cotabato City.

The celebration in the region was graced by notable figures, including Hon. Mayor Mohammad Ali “Bruce” C Matabalao of Cotabato City and Hon. Chief Cotabato City Prosecutor Mariam April V Mastura, who both delivered keynote addresses. The highlights of the event were the annual awardees of PDEA RO BARMM, which include its best performing personnel and operating units, counterparts in drug law enforcement, other support government agencies and media partners that significantly contributed to the accomplishments of PDEA RO BARMM that made possible to bag the “Best Regional Office” award under the Gamma Cluster.

Regional Director Gil Cesario Castro expressed his appreciation for the unwavering support of the City Local Government Unit (LGU) and Chief City Prosecutor Mariam April V Mastura in the agency's anti-drug campaign. He also extended gratitude to the LGUs, partner agencies, ministries, and media institutions for their cooperation, and valuable contributions that have been instrumental in the PDEA RO BARMM’s success.

“PDEA will remain strong and steadfast braving challenges in advancing our mission”. Director Castro added.

PDEA BARMM RD CASTRO EMPHASIZES THE IMPORTANCE OF THE BARANGAY DRUG CLEARING PROGRAM IN A JOINT CADAC/CPOC MEETING IN COTABATO CITY

Cotabato City: Today, June 28, 2024, the Regional Director of PDEA RO BARMM, Gil Cesario P Castro, along with IAV Joseph Theodore B. Atila, Chief Operation Division, recently attended a joint meeting of the City Anti-Drug Abuse Council (CADAC) and City Peace and Order Council (CPOC) in Cotabato City.

This meeting was chaired by the Honorable Mayor Mohammad Ali C. Matabalao and held at the Pagana Convention, Cotabato City. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss important matters related to drug abuse prevention, sustaining a drug-cleared status in barangays, and maintaining peace and order situation in the community.

Mayor Matabalao calls for an immediate solution to the recent incidents here in the city.

Director Castro emphasized the importance of the Barangay Local Government Unit's vital role in the implementation of the Barangay Drug Clearing Program which complements solving drug-related crimes.

He likewise elaborated on the PDEA’s balanced approach to supply and demand reduction strategy, wherein the supply efforts focused on the tactical and legal offensive in which apprehended drug personalities will be prosecuted and the proper implementation of rehabilitation for PWUDs through the Barangay Drug Clearing Program.

He also reiterated the local government unit’s liability if they fail to implement the program.

“I urge the BADAC’s active participation in the Barangay Drug Clearing Program as well as the community’s collaboration in the fight against illegal drugs. Let us continue to work together for the betterment of the Cotabateños”. Director Castro added.

PDEA GRACES THE COTABATO CITY 2024 STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS (SOCA)

Cotabato City—Today, June 18, 2024, PDEA Regional Director Gil Cesario P Castro, along with Assistant Regional Director Jill A Salamanca-Verceles, Provincial Officer Fim Anthony P Naive I, and other PDEA personnel, attended the State of the City Address (SOCA) of Cotabato City Mayor Mohammad Ali "Bruce" Matabalao at Peoples Palace, Rosary Heights 10, Cotabato City.

In his SOCA, Mayor Matabalao underscored the city's huge accomplishments under his administration through various successful infrastructures, programs, and activities, with the tagline “PARA SA LAHAT”. With this, the city is now classified as a 1st-class city from being a mere 3rd-class one. He also emphasized his current and future plans and programs to address the pressing issues and concerns of the city, particularly the numerous shooting incidents. He directed the PNP to look into this matter deeply and file charges against the persons behind all these.

Moreover, Mayor Matabalao conveyed his gratitude to all the law enforcement agencies and military for their dedicated efforts to maintain peace and order in the city.

Also in attendance were the members of the Sangguniang Panglunsod, its department heads, other law enforcement agencies, and barangay officials.