PDEA RO8 Honors Personnel, Partners at 24th Anniversary

Posted on July 22, 2026 at 3:38 am

TACLOBAN CITY — The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Office 8 (PDEA RO8) celebrated its 24th founding anniversary on July 15 at Hotel de Fides in Tacloban City, recognizing personnel and partner institutions, including members of the media, for their contributions to the agency’s anti-drug campaign.

The anniversary celebration, led by Regional Director DIR III Levi S. Ortiz, carried the theme, “Pinalakas na Kampanya Laban sa Ilegal na Droga, Tungo sa Ligtas na Bagong Pilipinas.” It gathered PDEA personnel, representatives from partner agencies, local officials, and stakeholders from across Eastern Visayas.

One of the highlights of the program was the awarding of Plaques of Recognition to stakeholders who have worked with PDEA in its anti-illegal drug information and advocacy programs.

Among those honored was Ronaldo “Tita Char” Yanuario, reporter of The Vanguard News and Magik FM Tacloban, who received a Plaque of Recognition for his outstanding service and exemplary partnership with the agency.

Yanuario was recognized for helping bring PDEA’s anti-drug advocacy closer to the public through responsible and timely reporting. His work in covering the agency’s activities and public information campaigns has helped raise awareness of the government’s continuing efforts against illegal drugs in Eastern Visayas.

In his message, Ortiz thanked the agency’s partners for their continued support over the years. He said PDEA’s work goes beyond law enforcement and depends on the cooperation of local government units, national agencies, community organizations, and the media.

He noted that responsible reporting helps inform the public and encourages communities to support the campaign against illegal drugs. He also said partnerships built on trust and cooperation have contributed to the agency’s accomplishments through the years.

The celebration also recognized the commitment of PDEA personnel through the presentation of Certificates of Recognition to employees who have shown dedication and professionalism in the performance of their duties.

Another major highlight of the program was the recognition of IAV Bryan Ponferrada of the Leyte Provincial Office, who was named Best Performing Provincial Officer (Gamma Cluster) during the PDEA National Awards. The national recognition brought honor to PDEA Regional Office 8 and highlighted Ponferrada’s work in implementing the agency’s anti-drug programs in the province.

After the formal program, employees and guests joined a fellowship activity that gave everyone an opportunity to celebrate the agency’s milestone together. The event also featured the Search for the Star of the Night, adding a lighter atmosphere to the anniversary celebration.

Now on its 24th year, PDEA RO8 continues to recognize that its work is strengthened by the support of its personnel and partners. This year’s anniversary served not only as a celebration of the agency’s achievements but also as a way of thanking the people and organizations that have stood beside it in its campaign against illegal drugs.

Photo by: Ronnie Yanuario | Vanguard