The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has signed an agreement with the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) in bid to reinforce and further boost the government’s intensified campaign against illegal drugs.
In a statement, the PDEA explained that the renewed collaboration was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) by the Solicitor General Darlene Marie B Berberabe for the OSG and PDEA Director General Isagani R Nerez on Wednesday, February 4.
The PDEA noted that the pact underscored PDEA’s and the OSG’s commitment to ensuring the efficient filing, close monitoring and vigorous prosecution of appropriate criminal and civil cases involving violations under Republic Act 9165, otherwise known as “The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.”
Under the MOA, the OSG vowed to establish a dedicated Task Force composed of solicitors who will provide legal assistance to PDEA in its forceful, intensive and unrelenting anti-illegal drug campaign and related legal efforts.
This includes the review of sworn affidavits prepared by PDEA operating units, participation in case conferences, and the strengthening of witness testimonies to improve the successful prosecution of drug cases, among other legal support measures.
In turn, PDEA committed to providing the OSG with all necessary information and data relevant to drug cases under its jurisdiction. The Agency will also conduct training programs and seminars in support of the effective implementation of the anti-drug law.
“This agreement is a clear indication that law enforcement operations do not end with arrests. Successful prosecution is just as vital,” Nerez said.
“We owe it to our communities to ensure that every drug case we build is prosecuted with strength, precision and diligence until its final resolution,” he added.