TACLOBAN CITY — Eastern Visayas has posted a strong showing in the government’s campaign against illegal drugs, with the majority of its local government units (LGUs) earning high-functionality status in the latest Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ADAC) Performance Audit.
Out of 149 LGUs in Region 8, a total of 129 — or 87 percent — were rated “high-functional” in the 2025 audit, signaling robust local implementation of anti-drug programs and sustained commitment to building drug-resilient communities.
The ADAC Performance Audit, spearheaded by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), evaluates how effectively local Anti-Drug Abuse Councils carry out their mandates.
These councils are tasked with leading prevention campaigns, coordinating rehabilitation efforts, and supporting law enforcement operations at the grassroots level.
Under the audit, LGUs are assessed based on key performance indicators, including executive leadership support, functionality of the local ADAC, strategic planning, budget allocation, and implementation of programs on drug prevention education, community-based rehabilitation, and enforcement assistance.
LGUs that achieved high scores demonstrated active council operations, clear action plans aligned with national policies, and dedicated funding for anti-drug initiatives.
The ADAC audit was institutionalized to ensure that anti-drug efforts are not limited to enforcement alone but are complemented by preventive education and recovery programs. It also promotes accountability among local chief executives in addressing drug-related concerns within their jurisdictions.
The strong performance of Region 8 LGUs underscores the critical role of local governments in sustaining the country’s broader anti-illegal drug campaign. While national agencies set policy directions, it is the LGUs that translate these into community-based actions — from barangay-level awareness drives to rehabilitation referrals and monitoring mechanisms.
Officials said the high compliance rate reflects strengthened coordination among local officials, law enforcement, health workers, schools, and civil society partners.
By maintaining functional and well-supported ADACs, Eastern Visayas LGUs are helping foster safer neighborhoods and more resilient communities.
The 2025 results, authorities noted, set a benchmark for continued improvement in local anti-drug governance — reinforcing that the fight against illegal drugs requires consistent leadership, adequate resources, and active community participation.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
