Cebu towns adopt ‘purok’ system

CEBU, Philippines - Several local government units in Cebu have adopted the “purok” system in maintaining peace and order and protecting the environment.

This was highlighted during the Convergence of Mega Cebu Leaders last Friday.

Under the purok system, residents are being involved in the implementation of the programs of the local government.

Liloan Mayor Christina Garcia Frasco said the system has helped their town especially in the coastal and highway cleanliness drive. Liloan has 28 puroks.

San Fernando Mayor Lakambini Reluya echoed the same, saying it paved the way for the government and the community to help each other in taking care of the environment and maintaining peace and order in each purok.

Consolacion Mayor Teresa Alegado said the purok system has strengthened their ecological campaign in the different barangays.

She added that the system also made it easier for them to coordinate with the residents in ensuring peace and order at the purok level. Alegado also said the purok system further serves as an effective means to fight illegal drug trade in their area.

Carcar City Mayor Nicepuro Apura also cited the effectiveness of the purok system in their campaign against the proliferation of illegal drugs.

“Pinaagi sa purok system, mailhan man kinsa ang dayo sa maong lugar ug dali sad mahibaw-an og namaligya ba kini og drugas," Apura said. —/GML (FREEMAN)