Two big groups coming from two directions merged at the town plaza after separately making the rounds of majority of the 14 barangays of the agricultural town.
Mayor Gene dela Fuente led the long parade coming from Barangay East Calaguiman while Vice Mayor Aida Macalinao headed the group coming from Barangay Lalawigan.
Participants came from all sectors, most of whom were elementary pupils and high school students. Many children carried placards denouncing illegal drugs.
“We decided to invite more of the youth because they are more vulnerable to illegal drugs and they are the life of our town. I am ready to give you all-out support and love,” the mayor told the children.
“Ang droga ay sumisira ultimo sa bata, sinisira hindi lang isipan, pagkatao kundi buong pamilya ng maraming angkan,” she added.
CRUSADA stands for Crusade of Responsive and United Samalenos Against Drug Abuse.
The mayor, however, reminded everybody that the crusade will not be only for one day. “Gagawin natin ito araw-araw sa tulong ng lahat ng relihiyon, ng mga simbahan upang ipakita na ang drug pushers ay walang lugal sa Samal,” dela Fuente said.
She said that every day at 3 p.m. from November 15 – 20, church bells were rung and a one-minute ecumenical prayer made.
The mayor led the signing of a Pledge of Commitment declaring war against illegal drugs.
Representatives from the police and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency talked about the drug menace.
