On Friday, April 4, 2025, Undersecretary Abad Otis of the Dangerous Drugs Board, paid a visit to the Municipality of Pola as part of the government’s continuing efforts to combat illegal drugs through rehabilitation-focused approaches. His visit included a site inspection of the local Bahay Silangan facility, followed by a coordination meeting held at the Pola Municipal Hall.

The meeting began at 12:15 PM and was attended by key members of the Municipal Anti-Drug Abuse Council (MADAC), including PLTCOL Virgilio R. Madronio, Deputy Provincial Director for Administration of Oriental Mindoro PPO, and PLTCOL Jan Alexis Basañez, Company Commander of the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company. PMAJ Florante M. Sugian II, Chief of Police of Pola MPS, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the municipality’s current drug-clearing status, recent anti-drug operations, and ongoing community-based interventions.

In his message, Undersecretary Otis underscored the importance of shifting the national narrative—emphasizing that individuals suffering from drug dependency should be treated as persons in need of help and healing, not punishment. He reminded the attendees that demand reduction is a shared responsibility among local government units, the community, and various stakeholders.

To further strengthen the local anti-drug campaign, USEC Otis proposed the revival of the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program, with a focus on instilling core values in the youth. He also emphasized the need to enhance aftercare programs for rehabilitated individuals to ensure their successful reintegration into society.

Moreover, he encouraged PMAJ Sugian to intensify school visitations and crime prevention efforts as part of a holistic, community-based approach to drug prevention.

The Pola Municipal Police Station ensured the security and orderliness of the event by providing security assistance throughout the duration of the visit.