On April 27, 2023, the Provincial Government of Guimaras headed by Gov. JC Rahman Nava in partnership with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Guimaras headed by PD Roselyn Quintana, together with the Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Department of Education (DepEd) and the Guimaras State University, launched the BIDA Caravan in Guimaras.

The BIDA Caravan is part of the “Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan (BIDA) Program,” which is an initiative of the DILG aimed at eradicating illegal drugs and promoting a drug-free community. The program seeks to involve various sectors of society in the fight against illegal drugs, with the overall goal of promoting health, well-being, and safety.

The BIDA Caravan covered the five (5) municipalities of Guimaras and a short program was hosted by each of the local government units (LGUs). The caravan was welcomed by the five municipal mayors of the province and DILG Regional Director Juan Jovian E. Ingeniero delivered a message. Likewise, statement of support to the BIDA Program was delivered by PDEA Guimaras Acting Provincial Director Jyxyvzcky G. Escrupolo, and Provincial Director PCOL Richard B. Baluis accompanied by PLTCOL Orly Gabinete and PLTCOL Raymond Cruz of the Guimaras Philippine Police Office (GPPO).

In the words of SILG Atty. Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr., who also showed his full support to the BIDA program said, “We are not only addressing drug demand reduction but interventions are very important. While the law enforcers are doing their tasks and support basic awareness on healthy lifestyle, giving our children confidence to say NO to Drugs matters….Let’s fight illegal drugs!”

The province-wide event served as a reminder to prioritize one’s health well-being, and safety by avoiding the use of illegal drugs. The caravan featured a series of activities and programs that aimed to educate the public about the dangers of illegal drugs and promote healthy lifestyle choices.

Through this initiative, the Provincial Government of Guimaras, in partnership with various government agencies and the academic community, demonstrate their commitment to create a drug-free community and promote a culture of health and wellness. With the BIDA Caravan, the government aims to inspire and empower its citizens to be proactive in the fight against illegal drugs and to make Guimaras a safer and healthier place to live.##