The Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) have started an executive review of the dangerous drugs law with focus on enforcement and rehabilitation of offenders as directed by President Marcos.
Under review are the provisions of Republic Act No. 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
DOJ Undersecretary Jesse Hermogenes T. Andres said the output from all stakeholders in the review will be incorporated in the proposed bill to amend RA 9165.
Andres assured that the DOJ and the DDB will come out with a proposed bill which is evidence-based, backed up by studies, data and statistics, and aligned with international standards and best practices.
In a press briefer, the DOJ said that review is focused on the President’s directive for a “whole-of-government” approach on the illegal drugs problems that incorporates not only law enforcement but also social services and multi-faceted interventions including community-based rehabilitation, education, and reintegration programs for drug offenders.
The DOJ is represented in the review by Undersecretary Andres while Secretary Oscar F. Valenzuela represents the DDB. Both agencies have started their Pre-Writeshop Activity for this year.
The briefer started that “since the government likewise expressed interest in working with international partners in the fight against illegal drugs while respecting human rights, the government-led policy review is participated in by non-government organizations and civil society groups -- Drug Policy Reform Initiative (DPRI), NoBox, StreetLawPH -- the University of the Philippines’ Institute of Human Rights, and international partners such as the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC).”
It also said “the review process will be highly consultative, and will ensure that the recommendations and positions of relevant stakeholders given during the 1st Drug Policy and Law Reform Summit held last July 2024 will be carefully considered.”
“Opinions of subject matter experts including human rights and health advocates will also be sought,” it added.