The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has started conducting coast watch awareness program for fishermen and barangay officials of coastal areas in the country in a bid to strengthen the prevention of the entry of illegal drugs.
The first wave of the seminar was conducted in Pagudpud and Pasuquin towns in Ilocos Norte.
The PDEA Region Office 1 said the activity aims to capacitate the fisherfolks and barangay officials in coordination with the authorities in properly addressing the area’s possible coastal illegal drug trade woes.
With the concerted approach, the initiative is a “pivotal step in solidifying the collaboration of the PDEA, Philippine National Police (PNP) Maritime, Philippine Coast Guard and the coastal municipalities to form a formidable force against drug trafficking in our territorial waters.
The PDEA added that the seminar will provide the necessary tools to the stakeholders in “protecting our communities from the destructive impact of illegal drugs.’’