Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), is seeking a more active role of the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (BADACs) in the street-level anti-illegal drugs campaign across the country.
Marbil said barangay officials play a key role in the identification, and in the presentation and implementation of preventive approaches as they are familiar with the peculiar situations in their respective communities.
“BADACs play a vital role in the government’s recalibrated anti-drug campaign as part of the needed strong community engagement to complement intensified law enforcement operations against drug suppliers and syndicates,” said Marbil.
“As we exert relentless pressure on drug suppliers and their networks, BADAC officials must take the lead in rehabilitating and reforming their constituents. Our recalibrated approach prioritizes human rights, ensuring that while we go after those who profit from illegal drugs, we also provide opportunities for those who can still be saved,” he added.
At the height of the drug war in the past administration, a number of barangay officials provided the list of suspected drug pushers and users in their areas of responsibility. This resulted in the surrender of more than one million suspected drug pushers across the country.
Marbil said the government’s revitalized anti-drug campaign follows a “back to basics” strategy that focuses on community-driven solutions.
He pointed out that barangay officials and residents are in the best position to identify individuals who require intervention and support.
“BADACs serve as the frontline force in our fight against illegal drugs at the grassroots level. We need them to be proactive—not just in monitoring illegal drug activities but also in ensuring that those seeking reform are given real opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration into society,” said Marbil.
Under the recalibrated approach, the PNP has strengthened intelligence-driven operations targeting high-value individuals and dismantling drug syndicates.
At the same time, it is enhancing coordination with local government units and BADACs to ensure a comprehensive and holistic response to the drug problem.
“The fight against illegal drugs is not just about making arrests. It is about saving lives, protecting communities, and upholding human rights at every stage. Our message to BADACs is clear—fulfill your role in reforming and protecting your people while we focus on neutralizing the sources of this menace,” said Marbil.
To further support BADACs, he said the PNP continues to conduct training and capacity-building programs aimed at strengthening their capability to implement drug prevention initiatives, community-based rehabilitation programs, and information campaigns in partnership with law enforcement and health agencies.
“We are all in this together. An empowered and active BADAC is a game-changer in the anti-drug campaign, and we expect them to rise to the challenge,” said Marbil.