BONTOC, Mountain Province (PIA)—The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency awarded to the municipality of Besao the Balangay Seal of Excellence in recognition to its efforts in clearing all its 14 barangays from the menace of illegal drugs through the implementation of the Barangay Drug Clearing Program (BDCP).
The Balangay Seal of Excellence is the highest recognition conferred by the PDEA to local government units that have successfully implemented the BDCP pursuant to Dangerous Drugs Board Regulation No. 4, series of 2021.
Mayor Bryne O. Bacwaden, Vice Mayor Elizabeth Buyagan, the punong barangays, and other local officials of Besao received the award from PDEA-Mountain Province Provincial Officer Meyrick E. Calisto on June 27, 2025.
Besao is the first municipality in the province to receive the Balangay award.
PDEA-CAR Regional Director Derrick Arnold C. Carreon in his message thru Calisto praised Besao officials and the community for their initiatives that have strongly established a foundation for drug-resilient and self-policing communities.
“Your resolute devotion and collective efforts are not just commendable. They set a powerful example for others to follow,” he said.
Meanwhile, PDEA reported significant progress in reducing illegal drug activities in the province.
PDEA officer Julius Calatan reported during the 2nd Quarter Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council meeting that of the 144 barangays of Mountain Province, 65 barangays have been officially proclaimed drug-cleared, and 75 barangays are now considered drug-free. The municipality of Barlig is also on its way of becoming the next Balangay awardee.
The PDEA and the provincial police office continue to intensify both demand and supply reduction efforts, enhancing joint operations to identify and apprehend key drug personalities, and strengthening community involvement in the fight against illegal drugs. **PIA Mountain Province with reports from Besao LGU
