The Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) stated on Saturday, December 21, that it has relentlessly pursued plans towards a unified approach in enhancing the country’s capacity to combat the challenges posed by illicit substance use.
As a proactive measure to detect new psychoactive substances (NPS), the DDB cited the importance of a scheme that creates effective guidelines on the use and implementation of Early Warning System (EWS) in the Philippines pursuant to Board Resolution No. 5, Series of 2018.
With this, the DDB organized a workshop whose primary objective is to monitor and analyze the seizure, apprehension and distribution of dangerous drugs, controlled precursors, uncontrolled chemicals, and NPS, ensuring timely action against emerging threats.
“The EWS is a vital mechanism designed to enable the swift exchange of information among law enforcement agencies, regulatory bodies, and health authorities,’’ the DDB explained.
In a statement, the DDB noted that the workshop brought together technical experts from various government regulatory agencies and partner stakeholders in pursuit of resolving concerns posed by the dangers of illicit substances use.
The DDB also collaborated with the DILG in engaging civil society organizations, faith-based groups and private sectors in a significant dialogue to raise the country’s illegal drug prevention quest.
DDB Deputy Executive Director Assistant Secretary Maria Belen Angelita Matibag explained the vital role that civil society groups, faith-based organizations, and private sectors play in tackling these pressing issues, encouraging active community involvement in promoting a drug-resilient environment.
The DDB emphasized that the activity served as a platform for collaboration, exchange of ideas and experiences, focusing on evidence-based strategies to address drug abuse concerns in the country.
“Participants emphasized the importance of prevention as the most effective and sustainable approach in combating drug-related challenges,’’ the DDB noted.
The DDB also noted that it is committed to addressing the challenges of substance abuse by implementing comprehensive and health-based strategies that encompass preventive education, rehabilitation, and reintegration of persons who use drugs into society.
Under Section 75 of Republic Act (RA) 9165 otherwise known as “The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002,’’ the DDB stated that it remains mandated to support the establishment of regional treatment and rehabilitation centers (TRCs) and prioritize funding to enhance existing facilities nationwide.
Through the DDB-approved Board Resolution 7 Series of 2024, the official turnover of funds to select government TRCs and community-based rehabilitation facilities was held last December 3, 2024.
In the said rites, the DDB and its partner agencies highlighted the critical role of TRCs in maintaining drug-resilient communities and expressed full support for the Marcos administration's commitment to a humanistic approach to drug prevention and control.
“Together, we will build a healthier future for the Philippines, one that is resilient, compassionate, and stigma-free, where every individual can thrive as part of a supportive and inclusive community,’’ the DDB added.