DDB, PDEA review proposed changes in Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act
By Chito Chavez

The Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) are pushing for the amendments of some provisions of the “The Comprehensive dangerous Drugs Act of 2002’’ amid the increasing complexity in the country’s drug-related issues.
In a statement, the DDB said that discussion with the PDEA was due to the need for a more effective and responsive legal framework with the country’s illegal drug campaign.
The discussions focused on strengthening the PDEA’s roles and responsibilities, refining key legal definitions and streamlining processes to align with a more human rights-based approach to drug enforcement and treatment and rehabilitation.
“These updates aim to reinforce policies and approach to drug prevention and control, ensuring a responsive and effective strategy in addressing emerging challenges,’’ the DDB said.
The DDB noted that it has always backed the administration’s compassionate and sympathetic approach in the treatment and rehabilitation of Persons Who Use Drugs (PWUDs).
DDB Undersecretary Armando Ramolete highlighted the compassionate treatment and rehabilitation scheme of the PWUDs during the board’s consultation with the Department of Health-Treatment and Rehabilitation Centers (DOH-TRC) nationwide.
He also assured of the DDB’s commitment in strengthening the holistic services, strategies and programs through the Philippine Anti-Illegal Drugs Strategy (PADS).
The inter-agency collaboration with the DOH-TRCs aims to reinforce the country's rehabilitation agenda and improve the effectiveness, accessibility, and sustainability of intervention programs for PWUDs.
DDB chairman Oscar Valenzuela also discussed the country’s priorities in enhancing the treatment and rehabilitation agenda of the government during the inter-agency collaborative consultation.
In the said activity, Valenzuela emphasized the crucial role of healthcare frontliners in the recovery journey of the PWUDs.
Valenzuela also asserted the need for the comprehensive and responsive policies that align with both national and international frameworks, ensuring that treatment and rehabilitation remain at the core of effective and sustainable drug intervention efforts.