PDEA confers ‘Balangay Seal of Excellence’ to LGU Claver, Surigao Norte
By Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Caraga conferred the prestigious Balangay Seal of Excellence to the local government unit (LGU) of Claver, Surigao del Norte on April 20.
The award was given by PDEA Caraga Director Laurefel P. Gabales, and received by Claver Mayor Georgia D. Gokiangkee, chairperson of the Municipal Anti-Drug Abuse Council (MADAC), together with Vice Mayor Leah D. Patan as MADAC vice chairperson, Sangguniang Bayan members, barangay officials, representatives from We Care, and MADAC members.
Also present during the ceremony was Provincial Officer Wenifredo D. Alagabia Jr. of PDEA Surigao del Norte, along with personnel from the provincial office.
The Balangay Seal of Excellence is the highest recognition granted by PDEA to the LGUs in acknowledgment of their exemplary and sustained implementation of the Barangay Drug Clearing Program. It is a symbolic, non-monetary award that highlights outstanding local governance and a strong commitment to anti-drug initiatives.
The recognition reflects the collective and collaborative efforts of the municipal government of Claver, barangay officials, law enforcement agencies, and community stakeholders in advancing the government’s campaign against illegal drugs and in promoting public safety.
Director Gabales commended the LGU of Claver for its unwavering dedication and proactive approach in ensuring the successful implementation of anti-drug programs. He emphasized that such achievements demonstrate the vital role of local government units in realizing drug-free communities.
“The conferment of the Balangay Seal of Excellence to LGU Claver underscores the importance of unity, commitment, and sustained efforts among all stakeholders in the fight against illegal drugs. We commend the local leadership and the community for their exemplary performance and encourage others to follow this model of good governance,” Gabales said.
Mayor Gokiangkee also reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment in sustaining its anti-drug initiatives and further strengthening programs that ensure a safe, orderly, and drug-free environment for all constituents.
PDEA Caraga reiterates the call for continued public cooperation and active participation as support to the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen the government’s anti-drug campaign, emphasizing that the fight against illegal drugs is a shared responsibility of every Clavernon and every Filipino, as a whole. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from PDEA Caraga)
