By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan

DESTROYED. Personnel of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA-BARMM) prepare confiscated illegal drugs for destruction through a method known as “rendering inert,” at the Hall of Justice in Jolo, Sulu on Nov. 20, 2024. More than PHP38 million worth of illegal substances were destroyed during the operation. (Photo courtesy PDEA)

MANILA – The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA-BARMM) has destroyed 5.6 kg. of dangerous drugs, with an estimated street value of at least PHP38 million, seized during operations in Jolo, Sulu.

In a report on Friday, PDEA said the operation, conducted on Nov. 20, used a unique method known as “rendering inert,” marking PDEA-BARMM as the first region in the country to adopt this approach.

This procedure adheres to the guidelines set by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) for the safe handling and disposal of chemicals related to illegal drug production.

After the destruction, PDEA officials and the local court transformed the mixed materials into a cement marker or monument, symbolizing the community’s unyielding resolve against the drug menace.

The destroyed substance stemmed from 97 cases filed before the Regional Trial Court Branch 3 in Jolo, Sulu from 2022 to this year, highlighting the significant volume of illegal drugs confiscated by PDEA-BARMM.

Judge Alsad Alfad Jr. lauded the relentless efforts of PDEA and the law enforcement units in their unwavering fight against illegal drugs while firmly adhering to the rule of law and human rights.

PDEA Regional Director Gil Cesario Castro, meanwhile, expressed sincere appreciation for the strong support from the provincial government, the Prosecutor’s Office, the provincial court, and the Philippine National Police Forensic Unit in Sulu. (PNA)