24/02/2026
February 19, 2026 – Takbo Kontra Droga 2026: Pulupandan Strengthens Commitment to a Drug-Free Community
The Pulupandan Municipal Health Office, in partnership with the Pulupandan LGU headed by Hon. Mayor Miguel Antonio C. Peña, Liga ng mga Barangay and the Philippine National Police, successfully conducted “Takbo Kontra Droga 2026: Sustaining a Drug-Free Community” a Fun Run activity which was part of the week-long celebration of the Salapan Festival.
The activity served as an advocacy campaign reinforcing the importance of a united and proactive community in the fight against illegal drugs. Aside from promoting physical fitness, the fun run symbolized collective action, running together toward a safer, healthier, and drug-free Pulupandan. It highlighted the important role of families, youth, barangay officials, law enforcement, and health workers in prevention efforts, early intervention, and sustained community-based rehabilitation initiatives.
Notably, Pulupandan’s Anti-Drug Program was recently recognized as Highly Functional during the CY 2025 Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ADAC) Performance Audit conducted by the Department of the Interior and Local Government. This recognition shows the LGU’s strengthened coordination, consistent implementation of anti-drug programs, and commitment to maintaining peace and order at the grassroots level.
The program commenced with a Zumba session to energize participants, followed by the 5-kilometer and 3-kilometer run categories. Hundreds of participants from various sectors of the community joined the activity, demonstrating broad support for the advocacy.
Also present during the program were Sangguniang Bayan Members Hon. Lorenzo Suatengco, Hon. Grace Cepida, and Hon. Rona Mae Galimba, together with barangay officials, whose presence further manifested strong legislative and grassroots support for the municipality’s anti-drug initiatives.
After the run, messages of support and encouragement were delivered by PCPT Rowell Peñiero, OIC of Pulupandan Municipal Police Station, and Ms. Melanie Dimco, DILG MLGOO. They emphasized the far-reaching impact of illegal drugs on families and communities and underscored the shared responsibility of every citizen in sustaining anti-drug efforts.
Dr. Geraldine Therese Lizares, Municipal Health Officer, then led the participants in the Anti-Drug Advocacy Pledge of Support, reaffirming the community’s collective commitment to uphold a safe, healthy, and drug-free environment for all.
The activity concluded with the awarding of medals and cash prizes to the male and female winners of both the 5-kilometer and 3-kilometer categories, marking a successful and meaningful celebration of community solidarity against illegal drugs.
