THE Philippine National Police’s commitment to winning the war on drugs has gained significant momentum in Central Luzon, thanks to a robust partnership between law enforcement and barangay officials.
This collaboration, championed by Police Regional Office 3 Director PBGen. Rogelio “Pojie” Peñones, Jr., is reshaping how anti-drug operations are carried out in the region.
At the center of this strategy is the close coordination between the PNP and Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils or BADACs.
By strengthening ties with local leaders and communities, police efforts are no longer just top-down mandates but are instead built on trust and cooperation.
Peñones, known for his hands-on leadership, has fostered strong relationships with barangay officials and residents, allowing for more efficient and timely interventions against drug trafficking.
One of the key players in this initiative is Col. Jay Baybayan, PRO3’s regional intelligence chief. His precise intelligence work has been instrumental in dismantling criminal networks in the region.
Baybayan’s active involvement, paired with local support, led to a significant drug bust in Mariveles, Bataan, where nearly a ton of shabu was intercepted.
Crucially, local residents played a key role in providing the intelligence that led to this successful operation.
This collaboration between the police and the community highlights the success of PGen. Nicolas Torre’s vision for a more localized, community-based approach to policing.
Under the leadership of Peñones, the region’s law enforcement efforts are proving more effective, not just in arresting criminals but in building long-lasting trust with the community.
With the continuous support of barangay officials and active participation from local residents, the fight against illegal drugs in Central Luzon is becoming a true community effort, setting a powerful example for the rest of the country.
