DAGUPAN CITY – Over 12,000 Pangasinenses participated in the Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan (BIDA) fun run held in Dagupan City recently led by Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos, Jr.
Secretary Abalos said the fun run is one of the strategies of the government in raising awareness and encouraging the community’s participation in the campaign against illegal drugs.
“BIDA is a whole-of-nation approach to address the demand-reduction side in the war against illegal drugs. This is just not about lifestyle but is raising awareness against drugs,” Abalos said during the program for the fun run.
He also emphasized the importance of rehabilitation or rehabilitation of persons who use drugs (PWUDs).
“Rehabilitation is one critical facet of the government’s war against illegal drugs. More than putting PWUDs behind bars, we want our countrymen to be able to renew their lives after falling under the bad influence of illegal drugs,” said Abalos.
The focus of the campaign, he added, is to help the rehabilitation of former drug addicts or drug pushers.
“Today, we have the Balay Silangan as the shining example of our efforts to focus on reformation and rehabilitation. Once they get out of prison or the rehabilitation center, even if their families and friends give up on them, we will not give up on them. We will help them rise again.”
Meanwhile, Abalos thanked the more than 12,000 Pangasinenses who joined the BIDA fun run and encouraged them not to give up and support the government in the fight against illegal drugs.
“Today, we are here, over 12,000 – strong. All those who are here today to support our advocacy against illegal drugs, all of you represent our utmost commitment to vanquish this societal evil. This poison will never prevail, we will win,” said Abalos.
The Secretary also reminded local governments that the fight against illegal drugs is not limited to a single action.
“The main purpose of the BIDA Fun Run is not the activity itself. BIDA is just the beginning – the real goal is to continue the campaign of the LGUs even after the event has passed,” he said.
The Secretary also visited the Dagupan City Jail and joined the Kalutan ed Dalan, the culminating activity for the Bangus Festival celebration.
