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DDB: Number of illegal drug users drops in 2023

Philippines | National

DDB: Number of illegal drug users drops in 2023

By Chito Chavez

The number of illegal drug users in the country has decreased from 1.67 million in 2019 to 1.47 million in 2023 based on the 2023 National Household Survey, the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) disclosed on Saturday, Dec. 7.

DDB Executive Director Earl Saavedra also noted that 29,111 barangays nationwide have been declared drug-free as of October 2024.

In collaboration with partner stakeholders, Saavedra said that they continue to champion a holistic and human-rights-based approach, emphasizing health, social, and developmental services.

“This marks a significant shift toward compassionate and sustainable strategies to promote healthier and safer communities,’’ Saavedra noted.

“Together, let us build a drug-resilient nation through effective, health-based, and community-centered solutions,’’ he added.

As part of the country’s illegal drug campaign, the DDB also produced the scouting-themed notebooks, developed in cooperation with the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP).

The materials feature essential educational messages on the campaign against drug abuse, integrated with the core values and disciplines championed by the scouting movement.

“As we empower our youth to make positive choices and informed decisions, we are confident they will lead the way in building a society free from the harms of drugs, inspiring others to walk the path of responsibility and hope,’’ Saavedra said.

Saavedra officially handed over the notebooks to the BSP, under the leadership of Secretary General Kim Robert De Leon.

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