Police Brig. Gen. Anthony A. Aberin, director of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), ordered all police commanders in Metro Manila to strictly observe the protocol in turning over confiscated illegal drugs to proper authorities for destruction.
Aberin issued the order after NCRPO data revealed that almost two tons of shabu and other illegal drugs confiscated since the 1990s were already turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for destruction.
“The NCRPO ensures the swift and transparent turnover of confiscated drugs to eliminate any speculation of misuse or recycling,” said Aberin.
“Each step of the process—from seizure to disposal—is meticulously documented, strictly monitored, and conducted under stringent legal protocols to uphold accountability and public trust,” he added.
Based on the NCRPO records, a total of 879,239.43 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) and 930,909.27 grams of marijuana have been turned over to PDEA from the activation of the District Forensic Units starting from 1990 until Jan. 27 this year.
The initiative, according to Aberin, aligns with Presidential Directive No. 2020-186, which mandates the immediate destruction of all illegal drugs seized by the government.
He said it also complies with Republic Act 9165 and the Supreme Court’s guidelines on the proper handling and disposal of drug-related evidence.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has been hounded by allegations of recycling illegal drugs, which paved the way for the popularity of the term “ninja cops”.
This is what the NCRPO is trying to avoid, according to Aberin.
“This measure ensures that drug evidence in police custody is properly accounted for and prevents any possibility of misuse, reinforcing the integrity of law enforcement operations,” said Aberin.
"The proper disposal of seized drug evidence follows strict legal procedures, leaving no room for irregularity. Every stage is fully documented and closely monitored to guarantee accountability,” he added.