Balubaran-Malabo TODA (BALMATODA) is awarded last November 20 at the Valenzuela City Town Hall as the Second Drug-Free TODA in the Valenzuela City -- empowering cooperation among transportation groups to join forces with the local government’s fight against illegal drugs.

Last October 11, 2019, Valenzuela City declared the Valenzuela City Hall Site Tricycle Operators and Drivers’ Association (VCHS-TODA) as its First Drug-Free TODA through Valenzuela Anti-Drug Abuse Council or VADAC’s “Project Pogi: Pogi ako dahil Drug-Free Ako!”, encouraging drivers and members of transport groups such as jeepneys, tricycles and pedicabs to be drug-free.

“Project Pogi” also leads the influence among drivers to represent the industry as not only for public transport but also for public peace, order and safety. The campaign aims to create trust between commuters and drivers and guarantee commuter safety, proving that the City’s public transport personnel are not into illegal drug activities.

With the continuous implementation of the project, Mayor REX Gatchalian together with VADAC Action Officer Councilor Atty. Bimbo Dela Cruz awards its Second Drug-Free TODA – BALMATODA, officially adopting a "Drug-Free Workplace Policy," having completed mandatory drug tests and continuing drug prevention program among BALMATODA officers and members.  

In his speech, Mayor REX commends BALMATODA for showing that their group is disciplined, also saying that their passengers and commuters “will feel safe and will appreciate their efforts.”

“Hindi madaling mapasunod ang mga miyembro natin pero pinakita niyo na disiplinado ang inyong mga operators at drivers. Pwede niyong ipagmalaki sa tao na ang lahat ng drivers ng BALMATODA ay sumusunod sa batas,” Mayor REX said.

Aside from the recognition, BALMATODA also receives a full HD LED television which can be used in the TODA’s terminal from VADAC.

As Valenzuela City rallies to eliminate illegal drugs in the City, the City Government promises to continuously tap the transportation sector to participate in its anti-drugs campaign.