Virac, Catanduanes – In a significant stride towards community safety and progress, Barangays Concepcion and Palnab del Norte have been officially declared drug-cleared following a thorough assessment by the Regional Oversight Committee on Barangay Drug Clearing. The momentous declaration was made on September 26, 2024, at around 1:00 PM, during a virtual conference attended by key officials.
The declaration marks the culmination of relentless efforts to eliminate illegal drugs in the barangays, a vital step in ensuring a safe environment for the residents. The event was attended by PMAJ Emsol E. Icawat, Chief of Police (COP), alongside PSSg Antonino Aquino from the Municipal Community Affairs Division (MCAD) and Mr. Roberto Sebastian, PDEA Provincial Officer for Catanduanes. Local government representatives included Mr. Jose G. Taraya, Municipal Administrator; Ms. Lea A. Madrid, MLGOO; Ms. Jean Triumfante, MSWDO; and Ms. Elva Joson, Municipal Health Officer, with Public Health Nurse Mr. Paul Vincent Tabor.
Hon. Anthony Arcilla, Punong Barangay of Concepcion, and Hon. Natividad Toledo, Punong Barangay of Palnab del Norte, also participated via Zoom to witness their communities’ formal recognition as drug-free.
The Regional Oversight Committee’s approval of the barangays’ drug-cleared status is a testament to the cooperation between government agencies and local officials. It signifies a major victory in the ongoing campaign against illegal drugs, reinforcing the commitment to maintaining peace and security in Virac. (BP NewsTeam)
