TACLOBAN CITY — About 100 operators of private establishments in Tacloban City attended the nationwide simultaneous launching of “OPLAN: KALASAG” held at Patio Victoria, San Jose on Friday, September 20, 2019, to show their support for a drug-free workplace.

“Oplan Kalasag,” is a program that would engage hotels, bars, restaurants, subdivisions, and warehouses in the fight against the proliferation of illegal drugs.

The said activity was spearheaded by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region 8 in partnership with the Tacloban City Government, Department of Health (DOH), the Philippine National Police (PNP) through Tacloban City Police Office (TCPO), and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

During the launching, Police Lieutenant Colonel Lope M. Macauba Jr., Deputy City Director for Administration underscored how this advocacy could enhance the anti-drugs campaign not just here in the city, but also the Philippines.

“…Innovations such as this Oplan Kalasag is a major step in the continued efforts to actively and co-actively enjoin and educate the private sector as advocates against illegal drugs toward a drug-free Philippines,” he said during the opening remarks.

Meanwhile, to express support to the advocacy, City Councilor Leo Bahin who represented Mayor Alfred S. Romualdez lauded the law enforcement agencies as they actively pursue their respective mandate and function in fighting illegal drugs and criminality.

“Through your sincerity, commitment and collective efforts our community feel more secure, peaceful and progressive,” Bahin expressed.

“We, your partners from the local government units will continue supporting your endeavor for the common good and national peace and order,” he added.

Apart from the launching, PDEA 8 Public Information Officer Rogellete Urgel said to educate the private owners of their social responsibility, lectures on drugs and health will also be highlighted.

Present during the launching was PDEA 8 Regional Director Edgar T. Jubay, Dr. Gloria Fabrigas, Officer-in-Charge of the City Health Office, and other law enforcement agencies. – C. Merin/CIO

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Photo: K.E. Napala/CIO