Lawyer and current Secretary of the Interior and Local Government of Philippines, Benjamin Abalos Jr., touched down in Los Angeles on January 29th in anticipation for the Manila International Film Festival, an event which celebrates Filipino films, talent, and culture. In addition to the Film Festival, Secretary Abalos Jr. is highlighting anti-drug initiatives by bringing awareness to the Buhay Ingatan, Drogra’y Ayawan Program. 

The Buhay Ingatan, Drogra’y Ayawan (BIDA) Program, launched nationwide in November of 2022, aims to decrease demand and use of illegal drugs by educating Filipino communities on the effects of illegal drug use. With the program, Secretary Abalos Jr. advocates for empowerment and unity of communities by promoting healthy living and physical activities such as running. 

Secretary Abalos Jr.’s strategy for this program has been groundbreaking. He utilizes a holistic approach by prioritizing human rights with the ultimate goal of improving quality of life for Filipino people. He believes a collaborative effort between various groups such as government institutions, religious institutions, schools, and families is vital for the success of the program as he works towards developing and transforming the Philippines. 

Since its start in 2022, the program has had great support from various stakeholders ranging from the public to private sectors, allowing for BIDA to make monumental strides against the use of illegal drugs. BIDA has also participated in several events to increase awareness of the program including the BIDA Fun Run. In addition, the program has notable partners such as the Premier Volleyball League, Philippine Basketball Association, SM Cinemas, Megaworld Cinemas at

Ayala Malls, and many more, to help spread awareness of the program and raise funds to continue helping Filipino people. 

In its first year, the BIDA program won an award at the Government Media Awards for National Social Welfare Initiative of the Year in recognition for most outstanding government project. Following a successful campaign in 2023, BIDA aims to focus on rehabilitation, reintegration, and aftercare of all persons who used drugs, to ensure they can get jobs and create a new life. 

Starting 2024 strong, Secretary Abalos Jr. flew into Hollywood to promote the BIDA program as well as Philippine arts. During his trip, he made courtesy call visits and met with Filipino leaders in order to further discuss his initiative as well as his strategy for BIDA. The Secretary was the guest of honor at an elegant dinner hosted at Yamashiro Hollywood, where he enjoyed a night of delicious food and incredible company. 

Ahead of the exciting Gala, Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., will attend the Chinese Theater Mayors Mixor, an opportunity to further discuss the BIDA program and create awareness for all of the program’s great work. 

On Friday, February 2nd, Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., will attend the highly anticipated Manila International Film Festival Awards Gala. Hosted at the Directors Guild of America, the night will celebrate the very best in Philippine Cinema, with a red carpet at 5PM and the ceremony to follow at 6PM. The prestigious event will present Philippine art, talent, and culture to a larger audience, bringing Philippine films to a global stage. 

Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. hopes to continue raising awareness for the BIDA program in order to widen the program’s reach and help even more people who have been affected by the use of illegal drugs. He urges global Filipino communities to take pride in their culture by supporting the arts and showcasing the beauty of the Philippines.