Ilocos norte: The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has conferred the "Balangay Seal of Excellence" on four local government units (LGUs) in the province of Ilocos Norte for their effective implementation of the Barangay Drug Clearing Program (BDCP).

According to Philippines News Agency, the municipalities of Dingras, Nueva Era, Paoay, and Pinili have become the first four LGUs in Ilocos Norte to have all their villages declared drug-free. PDEA provincial officer Richard Tinong commented on their "strong and consistent anti-drug efforts through the Municipal Anti-Drug Abuse Council" during a media interview.

The "Balangay Seal of Excellence" represents the highest recognition awarded by PDEA to LGUs for their efforts in the BDCP through their Municipal Anti-Drug Abuse Councils. This accolade acknowledges the commitment of local governments to the anti-illegal drug campaign.

The BDCP, an initiative by the PDEA, Department of the Interior and Local Government, and the Philippine National Police, involves the validation, monitoring, and post-clearance support to maintain drug-cleared status and promote safer communities. Barangay Sangladan's captain, Estanislao Bagayas, shared in an open forum how addressing the root causes of drug issues and constant communication with drug users helped clear their Barangay of drugs.

Bagayas highlighted that many casual drug users were influenced by peer pressure, with some only experimenting once or twice. Efforts to reform users included one-on-one communication, addressing their needs, providing livelihoods, and inspiring meaningful lives, leading to successful community reintegration.

In line with the Marcos administration's bloodless war on drugs, local government units have contributed best practices to enhance prevention and rehabilitation efforts. These include regular visitation and drug testing, counseling, livestock dispersal, and other community-based interventions tailored to individual needs.