The Municipality of Lasam has just inaugurated the four-storey building that serves as the quarters for its Philippine National Police Non-commissioned Officers (PNCO) on March 10, 2023.

In attendance were Second District Representative Hon. Baby Aline Vargas-Alfonso, Regional Police Director Brigadier General Percival A. Rumbaoa, DPWH Engineers Rellie Simbe and Engr. Romy Yaquin.

They were joined by Mayor Dante Dexter A. Agatep, Vice Mayor Randy C. Cambe, Info Officer Renato Paat, Jr., Chief of Police Major Efren P. Tangonan, and other Regional, Provincial, and Local PNP officers.

Mayor Agatep Commends Lasam PNP

In his statement during the ceremonies, Mayor Agatep said: "Today, we celebrate another milestone not just with our police officers but of the entire Lasam. Consider this development a reward for a job well done in maintaining peace in our town, and a motivation to continue this good performance."

The Mayor also took the opportunity to commend the officers and members of the Lasam PNP. "And as we cut the ribbon, I would like honor the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to protect us. I salute you for dedicating your lives in maintaining public safety here in our town. You are one of the reasons behind our Natalged a Lasam. So, wear your badge with honor and pride because we, the Lasamenos are all proud of you."

The construction of the PhP 10 million worth PNCO building was made possible through the able legislative work of Congressw. Vargas-Alfonso.

Grateful Chief Executive

The Local Chief Executive expressed his gratitude: "I would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who made this milestone possible, most importantly Congresswoman Baby Aline Vargas-Alfonso. Thank you for being ray a sunshine to every Lasameño. Thank you for your endless support. I would like you to know that your generosity is well appreciated by the people of Lasam. You are one of the reasons why Lasam keeps on moving forward into growth and progress."

CBAIDA, Recognized

In a related development, the Municipality has stepped up its Anti-Drug Abuse Campaign after being recognized nationally for establishing the Community-Based Anti-Illegal Drugs Awareness (CBAIDA) team. This group is instrumental in carrying out the Municipality's sustainable Anti-drugs activities and information campaigns.

BADAC Training

As part of the LGU Lasam's intensified efforts towards a Drug-free Municipality, as it is among the Natalged a Lasam Development Goal Pillars (NLDGPs), a Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council (BADAC) Training participated by barangay police force (tanods) was held at the Lasam Institute of Technology (LIT) in January.

MADAC Calls for a Meeting

Likewise, to further strengthen all anti-drugs abuse efforts, a Municipal Anti-Drug Abuse Council (MADAC) meeting was convened by Municipal Local Government Officer Reenei Heidy C. Tollo and PNP Chief Police Major Efren Tangonan at the Alannay Barangay Hall last month. Various actions toward curbing all forms of drug-related activities in the municipality were threshed out.

Drug-free Workplace

Prior to the inauguration of the four storey PNCO quarters, the Lasam PNP office was certified and declared a Drug-free Workplace. #

Text by Alfred Ursua; Photos by VM Randy Cambe & Info Officer Renato Paat, Jr.