The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is set to begin an annual audit of 1,716 local Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (ADACs) across the Philippines, reviewing their performance for the year 2024.

In a report by RH Val Gonzales on "Rapido Hataw Balita," the audit will cover 82 provinces, 149 cities, and 1,485 municipalities nationwide to ensure a fair and comprehensive review.

"The goal is to check how effective these councils are, and to identify innovative programs and successful strategies in the fight against illegal drugs," the DILG wrote in a Facebook post.

According to the DILG, the audit team will be composed of representatives from the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB), and accredited civil society organizations.

Eight major areas will be evaluated in the audit:

• Re-establishment or reorganization of local ADACs

• Regular conduct of council meetings

• Budget allocation and implementation of anti-drug programs

• Support provided to barangay-level Anti-Drug Abuse Committees

• Oversight and management

• Efforts to clear barangays of drug influence and sustain these gains

• Access to rehabilitation and reintegration services

• Local systems are in place to ensure accountability and integrity

The DILG stated that councils with low performance ratings will receive technical assistance and support, depending on available funds. However, those that remain low-performing for two consecutive years may face administrative or legal action.

"Each ADAC will be rated on a 100-point scale: High Performing: 70–100 points, Moderate: 51–69 points, Low Performing: Below 50 points. Low-performing councils will receive technical assistance and support, depending on the availability of funds. However, if a council receives low scores for two years in a row, administrative or legal action may be taken," the statement read.

Meanwhile, top-performing councils—those scoring 80 points and above—may be recognized for their excellence in innovation, consistent performance, reintegration efforts, and aftercare services.

The DILG emphasized that this initiative supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s holistic, community-based, and human rights-centered approach in the government’s campaign against illegal drugs.

By shifting to an online review system, the DILG seeks to strengthen transparency, efficiency, and local initiatives in the fight against drugs.