Danao City's Anti-Drug Efforts Recognized with Multiple Honors
The City of Danao emerged as a major awardee during the 2025 Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Week celebration organized by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency 7 (PDEA 7). The prestigious event took place on Friday, November 21, 2025, at the IC3 Convention Center in Cebu City.
This significant activity aimed to recognize the contributions of various government agencies and non-government organizations in strengthening the campaign against illegal drugs throughout the region.
Five Major Awards for Comprehensive Anti-Drug Programs
Danao City secured an impressive collection of awards across multiple categories, demonstrating the effectiveness of its holistic approach to drug prevention and rehabilitation. The city received recognition as:
Innovative Anti-Drug Abuse Council - for implementing creative strategies in drug prevention
LGU with Operational Balay Silangan Reformation Center - for maintaining a functional rehabilitation facility
Champion in Community-Based Drug Rehabilitation Program - for excellence in local rehabilitation efforts
Champion in Community-Based Anti-Illegal Drug Advocacy - for outstanding community awareness campaigns
Champion in Drug-Free Workplace Program - for ensuring drug-free environments in workplaces
Leadership and Commitment Behind the Success
Vice Mayor Carmen Remedios "Ivy" Durano, former Chairman of the Cebu Provincial Drug Abuse Office, personally received the awards and expressed overwhelming joy at their achievements. She emphasized that the recognition reflects Danao City's strong unity and continuous fight against illegal drugs.
"These awards demonstrate the true leadership, strength, and commitment of Mayor Nito Durano in building a safe, healthy, and more resilient community," stated the vice mayor during the ceremony.
Vice Mayor Durano also highlighted the active role of the Danao City Anti-Drug Abuse Office (DCADAO), which consistently implements programs focused on protection and reformation of residents, particularly the youth.
The 2025 Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Week celebration carried the theme "Sa Bagong Pilipinas, Kalusugan ang Pahalagahan, Droga Iniiwasan" (In the New Philippines, Value Health, Avoid Drugs). The awards ceremony honored both private and public institutions working toward the strategy of Supply and Demand Reduction in Central Visayas.
PDEA Director General Undersecretary Isagani Nerez emphasized in his message that winning the campaign against illegal drugs cannot be achieved by a single agency alone. Success requires unity and collaboration among all national government agencies, local government units, the private sector, and the community.
