Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is leading the Philippines in a strong drive against the issue of illegal drugs. His administration is focusing on both progress and compassion, and all signs point toward its effectiveness as the Philippine National Police (PNP) has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in its recalibrated and bloodless fight against illegal drugs.
According to Philippines News Agency, from Jan. 1 to Dec. 15, 2024, the PNP successfully seized an astounding PHP20.7 billion worth of illegal drugs-a 101% increase compared to 2023. In a statement released on Dec. 22, 2024, PNP Chief General Rommel Marbil revealed that 46,821 anti-drug operations were conducted in the country, leading to the arrest of 57,129 individuals involved in the illegal drug trade. The operations also seized more than eight metric tons of illegal drugs, surpassing 2023's figures by nearly two metric tons. 'This extraordinary achievement is a testament to our focused operations against high-value individuals in the illegal drug trade. Our calibrated approach, prioritizing human rights, proves that we can dismantle drug syndicates without unnecessary loss of life,' said Marbil.
The Police Regional Office 4A (Calabarzon) was named the top performer during these operations, seizing nearly PHP9.9 billion in drugs, while the PNP Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG) came in second with PHP2.4 billion. 'This accomplishment is not just a victory for the PNP but for the Filipino people who deserve safer and drug-free communities. Let this achievement inspire us to continue working together in our fight against illegal drugs,' Marbil affirmed.
On April 15, 2024, police in Alitagtag, Batangas, discovered over PHP13.3 billion worth of shabu in a vehicle intercepted at a checkpoint stop. This operation, possibly the biggest drug bust in the country's history, involved a joint effort by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). It shows how the government is tough on drug gangs while also focusing on rehabilitation and prevention.
President Marcos' approach showed a significant shift from the previous administration's methods, with results to match. He emphasized a holistic strategy targeting drug syndicates and major players while emphasizing rehabilitation for affected users. This strategy aims to save lives and rebuild communities, creating a ripple effect of progress and hope.
Marcos is also enhancing the prioritization of human rights in the Philippines by forming the Special Committee on Human Rights Coordination (SCHRC). This committee, led by Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin and co-chaired by Secretary of the Department of Justice Jesus Crispin Remulla, will ensure government agencies focus on upholding human rights.
The PNP announced on Nov. 20, 2024, its comprehensive Anti-Illegal Drug Campaign Roadmap for 2024-2028, a strategic initiative designed to intensify the fight against illegal drugs while ensuring the protection of human rights and dignity. PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil shared that the plan includes community-oriented enforcement, special training, international cooperation, and active community involvement. The goal is to establish a fully integrated law enforcement system that maintains public trust.
Brig. Gen. Eleazar Matta and the PNP Drug Enforcement Group are focusing on strong operations, winning cases in court, and making the public aware of the dangers of drugs. They are also working on prevention and building community ties, aiming for a drug-free Philippines by 2030.
On Aug. 11, 2024, the PNP chief ordered the review of the "Oplan Double Barrel" anti-drug strategy to evaluate its relevance and effectiveness. This will involve a panel led by PNP Deputy Chief for Operations, Lt. Gen. Michael John Dubria, assessing various projects like "Project Tokhang" and "Project High-Value Target."
Senate President Francis Chiz Escudero supports the recalibrated anti-drug campaign, emphasizing the importance of targeting big-time drug lords who drive the illegal trade in the country. "I agree and support this new strategy," Escudero stated, adding that it will hopefully lower the prevalence of drugs and the number of drug users in the country.
