The local government of Navotas recently launched the Mamamayang Ayaw sa Anomalya, Mamamayang Ayaw sa Iligal na Droga or MASA-MASID, a community-based program that aims to curb illegal drugs, corruption, and criminality in barangays.
Ninety-eight representatives from the city’s 14 barangays vowed to be proactive in helping keep Navotas free and safe from illegal drugs, corruption, and criminality.
“We want to empower our citizens so they may serve as active partners in our efforts to address issues and challenges that our city faces,” Mayor John Rey Tiangco said.
“Navoteños share the responsibility of ensuring peace and order in our city. We want them to have active involvement in the city government’s projects and programs, especially in our anti-drug campaign,” he added.
During the launch, Tiangco also led the signing of the Pledge of Commitment to support the MASA-MASID and participate in its efforts to promote a drug- and crime-free city.
“With the organization of MASA-MASID, we will be able to strengthen our fight against criminality and ensure good governance,” the mayor said.
MASA-MASID is a multi-sectoral group composed of representatives from Barangay Peace and Order Council, Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council, faith-based organizations, civil society organizations, non-government organizations, and people’s organizations.
Its main goals include information and education campaign in communities for government programs against corruption, illegal drugs and criminality; as well as creation of a reporting mechanism on illegal drugs-related activities.
The program also intends to formulate community-based rehabilitation programs; and revive the spirit of volunteerism by creating a volunteer-friendly atmosphere for organizations that wish to be partners for change.