Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Director General Wilkins Villanueva was among the recipients of the Outstanding Filipino Luminary Awards 2021 for National Government Service.
In simple rites on Friday, Nov. 19, at the Conrad Manila Hotel, Villanueva was cited for his "notable achievements and invaluable contributions in spearheading the national campaign against illegal drugs."
"A Filipino luminary is someone who serves as a beacon of light and inspiration to others while making significant impacts in our country. The award also commemorates the resilient spirit of the Filipino people, and honors the leaders and prime movers of our society amidst the coronavirus pandemic,’’ the PDEA said.
With the coveted recognition, Villanueva extended his gratitude to the organizers “for placing their trust and confidence in hailing me as one of the Filipino luminaries this year.’’
The award was bestowed to Villanueva for championing the Barangay Drug Clearing Program (BDCP), the main framework of PDEA’s anti-drug strategy that embodies a holistic and whole-of-nation approach in addressing the country’s drug problem.
In response, Villanueva stressed that the BDCP "is the answer to our illegal drug woes.’’
“To emerge victorious is to eliminate illegal drugs barangay by barangay until there is no drug-affected barangay left,” he added.
Villanueva served the country for two decades in the field of drug law enforcement, having worked in different capacities both with the Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Narcotics Group and as one of PDEA’s pioneering officers.
The Outstanding Filipino Luminary Awards 2021 was organized by the Espicom Group, in cooperation with MGI Philippines; Luque International; Rotary Club Diliman Central District 3780; and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).