Palapag Earns Award for Strong Anti-Drug Efforts

Posted on Jan. 31, 2026 at 8:41 pm

Palapag, Northern Samar — The town of Palapag has become the latest drug- free local government model after being awarded the Balangay Seal of Excellence, which is the highest honor that local government units (LGUs) implementing the Barangay Drug Clearing Program (BDCP) receive.

The recognition was awarded to the public officials of the municipality during the Monday Flag Raising Ceremony at the Palapag Municipal Hall at 8:00 a. m. DIR II Lirio T. Ilao, Oximar, Acting Regional Director of PDEA Regional Office 8, conferred the award to Mayor Florence Pawa A. Batula.

The Balangay Seal of Excellence is a local government award given as a recognition of sustained commitment, effective governance, and success in anti- drug initiatives, in accordance with Dangerous Drugs Board Regulation No. 4, Series of 2021.

Palapag’s success demonstrates an integrated, multi-sectoral approach to the campaign, with representatives from the local PDEA office playing a significant role, complemented by the attendance of DILG Provincial Director Geraldine Maquilabit. PDEA Northern Samar was represented by their law department chief Atty. Ma Rhea D. Caminong, Intelligence Agent V Josefat S. Macawile, and Intelligence Agent V Silas S. Aurelia, respectively.

Mayor Batula expressed her gratitude to PDEA for the accolade and considered it an affirmation of the continuous efforts of the LGU to serve the public and collaborate with partners in the community.

“This award is a testament to our collective vision of creating a safe, drug-free, and thriving community,” Batula said, explaining that the honor would be a source of encouragement for more efforts in governance, public safety, and sustainable development.

Palapag’s success is likely to inspire other towns not only in Northern Samar but also in the region to intensify their anti-drug programs and foster peace, safety, and good governance.

(Photos courtesy of PDEA Otso)