By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan
MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday reported the seizure of over PHP14 million worth of illegal drugs in two-week operations nationwide from May 4 to 17.
This complies with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to sustain and intensify the anti-illegal drugs campaign by running after not only big-time drug syndicates but also street-level offenders.
“The PNP is fully committed to the directive of the President. We will pursue drug offenders from all sides—big-time syndicates down to small-time street pushers. No one is above the law, and we will ensure that those responsible for destroying lives and communities through illegal drugs will be arrested, charged, and brought to justice,” PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said in a statement.
During the period, a total of 664 anti-illegal drugs operations were conducted nationwide, resulting in the arrest of 588 individuals involved in the illegal drug trade that led to the seizure of 2.08 kg. of shabu and 23 grams of marijuana, with an estimated standard drug price of PHP14.16 million.
To further strengthen the campaign, newly designated PNP Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG) officer in charge, Brig. Gen. Jason Capoy said they are currently finalizing his proposed anti-drug strategy, which will be submitted to the PNP chief in the coming days.
This strategy will aim to enhance operational effectiveness, intelligence gathering, and grassroots community engagement.
While the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) remains the lead agency in the government’s anti-drug campaign, the PNP assures its continued close collaboration and partnership with PDEA to ensure synergy in operations and greater impact on the ground.
The PNP urges every Filipino to take an active role in this campaign by staying vigilant and reporting any drug-related activities.
“This is not just a campaign of the government—it is a fight for the future of our communities. The PNP will not back down. We will persist until our streets, our communities, and our nation are truly free from the scourge of illegal drugs,” Marbil said.
During his third State of the Nation Address in July last year, President Marcos pledged to continue the bloodless anti-narcotics drive, emphasizing that extermination is not a part of his administration’s campaign. (PNA)
