On December 11, 2024, the grand halls of the Manila Hotel became the stage for an inspiring event—the 2024 National Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ADAC) Awards. Among the 188 recognized local government units (LGUs) from across the Philippines stood the Municipality of Almeria—a small yet determined community whose unwavering resolve has made it a shining example of resilience and collaboration in combating illegal drugs.
A Victory for Almeria
The National ADAC Award honors LGUs that excel in implementing effective and sustainable anti-drug programs. For Almeria, receiving this prestigious recognition symbolized the culmination of years of dedication, innovative strategies, and collective action.
Mayor Richard D. Jaguros, alongside Municipal Local Government Operations Officer (MLGOO) Bernarda M. Saboy, proudly accepted the award. Their leadership and commitment have been pivotal in steering Almeria’s transformative journey toward a drug-free municipality.
Behind this achievement lies a powerful story of determination and unity. Almeria’s anti-drug initiatives—including sustainable rehabilitation programs for drug dependents, active collaboration with law enforcement agencies, and comprehensive education campaigns—have created a safer and more progressive community. These efforts earned high marks from national evaluators of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), firmly establishing Almeria as a top-performing LGU in anti-drug abuse prevention.
The Power of Partnership
Central to Almeria’s success is the strong partnership with key stakeholders. The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the DILG provided critical guidance, resources, and support for the municipality’s programs. This collaboration ensured the sustainability and effectiveness of Almeria’s anti-drug initiatives.
Equally significant were the contributions of the Punong Barangays, who championed community-based programs at the grassroots level. Their leadership and dedication rallied constituents to work together, exemplifying the vital role of localized efforts in addressing societal challenges like illegal drugs.
“We owe this recognition to everyone who contributed to our anti-drug campaigns,” shared MLGOO Bernarda M. Saboy. “It’s a collective victory that highlights what we can achieve when we work as one.”
A Call to Action
For Almeria, this award is not the culmination of its efforts but a call to sustain and enhance them. The municipality’s leadership understands that maintaining a drug-free community demands vigilance, innovation, and continued collaboration.
Mayor Jaguros emphasized the importance of building on this momentum, viewing the award as both a milestone and a motivator. Almeria’s story serves as an inspiration for other LGUs, proving that even small communities can make a significant impact when united by a shared vision.
Celebrating a Shared Commitment
The awarding ceremony at the Manila Hotel was more than a recognition of achievement—it was a celebration of collective efforts by LGUs, national agencies, and civil society groups. It underscored the progress made in creating a safer, healthier Philippines.
For the people of Almeria, the recognition is a source of pride and hope. It symbolizes their unwavering commitment to a brighter future, free from the grip of illegal drugs. As the municipality continues its journey, it does so with the knowledge that unity can overcome even the most daunting challenges.
Almeria’s story is a beacon of hope—a powerful reminder that when communities come together, they can achieve extraordinary things.
