'Puwede naman pala': PNP says over P36.5-B worth of illegal drugs in 'less bloody' drug war under PBBM

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr graces the 123rd Police Service Anniversary of the Philippine National Police (PNP) at Camp Crame in Quezon City on Thursday, Aug 8, 2024. In attendance are Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr. , PNP Chief PGen. Rommel Marbil and PNP Director for Logistics PMGen. Mario A. Reyes, and (PPA POOL / Noel B. Pabalate)
More than P36.5 billion worth of illegal drugs were seized since President Marcos assumed the presidency in July 2022, an aggressive anti-illegal drugs campaign which the Philippine National Police (PNP) describes as focusing on the preservation of human life.
PNP chief, Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said such illegal drugs campaigns include the almost P10 billion worth of shabu that were seized in Alitagtag, Batangas in April this year.
“Our anti-illegal drugs campaign has made remarkable strides with the value of drugs seized increasing to approximately P36.5 billion between July 1, 2022 to July 31, 2024 to include the P9.68 billion in Alitagtag, Batangas, the largest haul in history and the highest recorded seized,” said Marbil in his speech during the 123rd Police Service Anniversary at Camp Crame in Quezon City on Thursday, Aug. 8.
Marbil said the campaign against illegal drugs under the Marcos administration is also focused on upholding the dignity of the society by sticking to the rule of law, particularly on the aspect of human rights.
For instance, he said their law enforcement strategic plans include prevention of proliferation of illegal drugs and rehabilitation of those who were already hooked up to the addictive substances.
The rehabilitation efforts, he said, also include reintegration of former illegal drug users to society through collaboration with various stakeholders and community engagements.
“Our battle against drugs abuse transcends mere law enforcement. It fundamentally aims to uphold the very fabric of our society as we pursue our anti-illegal drug campaign targeting high-value targetsI and identifying drug sources,” said Marbil.
“We remain dedicated to preserving human life. Our efforts ensure the well-being and dignity of every member of the community,” he added.
The Marcos administration has pursued a different approach in the campaign against illegal drugs, which was reflected by the policy implemented by his first Chief PNP, retired general Rodolfo Azurin, Jr.
Azurin’s stand to give those who were hooked into illegal drugs a second chance resulted in former police officials of the previous administration attacking him.
But Azurin stood his ground as he emphasized the need to carry out illegal drug operations with fewer casualties, or less bloody, operations.
The policy was adopted by his successor, Benjamin Acorda, Jr. and is also being continued by Marbil.
For Marbil, the new approach to illegal drugs has been effective in earning the trust and confidence of the people..
He said this was proven by the continuing downtrend in crime volume across the country.
Citing PNP data, he said there was a Significant decrease in rape, carnapping and robbery along with 21.09 percent reduction in cybercrime incidents.
“Our communities, our streets, and fear has diminished, and families enjoy their homes without the looming threat of crime. Children play freely with genuine smiles and the improved safety has enhanced the quality of life attracting more visitors and boosting community well-being,” said Marbil.