The Central Jakarta Administration is exploring cooperation in preventing drug abuse with Quezon City, Philippines.

This was expressed by the Mayor of Central Jakarta, Arifin, when receiving an honorary visit from the Quezon City Drug Abuse Advisory Council (QCDAAC) of the Philippines, at Kampung Bonang, Menteng Urban Village, Tuesday (7/29).

According to Arifin, the QCDAAC group came to Kampung Bonang to see one of the community empowerment programs in preventing drug abuse that has been running together with the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) and community elements.

"The presence of the Philippine QCDAAC is not only an honor, but also a proof that drug abuse is a global issue that requires solidarity across borders, cultures, and countries. We believe that through cooperation, mutual learning, and sharing, strong social resilience can protect future generations from the dangers of drugs," he said.

Kampung Bonang is an urban village in Central Jakarta known for its high density and social heterogeneity. Through this approach, the village has become an active, productive example, with a strong collective spirit in protecting children from the dangers of drugs.

Arifin believes that Quezon City, Philippines, and Jakarta share many similarities, including social and cultural aspects, as well as urban challenges.

Arifin emphasized that strategic cooperation between the two cities will strengthen capacity to address drug issues more effectively and innovatively.

"There will be an exchange of ideas and opportunities for further collaboration not only between institutions, but also between cities and countries," he stated.

According to him, drug eradication cannot be carried out sporadically, especially relying solely on a single institution. It requires a collaborative, multi-stakeholder, and long-term approach.