BADACs ‘frontline force’ in drive vs illegal drugs–PNP chief
PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) chief General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil has emphasized the vital role of the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (BADACs) in the recalibrated anti-drug campaign against drug suppliers and syndicates.
“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,” the top cop said.
The Numbers of the National Anti-Drug Campaign from July 1, 2022 to January 31, 2024 showed that during the period, a total of P56.36 billion worth of drugs, chemical precursors and essential chemicals and laboratory equipment were seized.
They include nearly 7.393 tons of shabu, 89.19 kilograms of cocaine, 121,022 pieces of Ecstasy and 5.248 tons of marijuana, said Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency chair Director General Isagani R. Nerez.
The period also saw the PDEA, the PNP and other Law Enforcement Agencies conducting a total of 97,406 operations which led to the arrest of 131,578 target drug personalities.
All arrested suspects are now facing criminal charges for violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
The Marcos government also declared 29,390 ‘drug-affected barangays’ during the period and is still in the process of clearing 6,113 others.
The agency explained there are no changes on figures concerning the declaration of drug-cleared and drug-affected barangays.
Gen. Marbil emphasized the Marcos Jr. ‘s administration’s commitment to a bloodless and human rights-based campaign in approving the strategy.
Director General Nerez and Gen. Marbil agree that ‘targeting the entire supply chain and the sources driving the drug trade’ instead of concentrating too much on cutting off the heads of the syndicate is their main objective.
The recalibrated strategy of the government involves intensified intelligence operations and stronger community engagement to identify and dismantle drug trafficking networks, the PNP chief said.
“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,” Gen. Marbil explained.
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.
To further support BADACs, Gen. Marbil said they are continuing 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,” Gen. Marbil said.
The PNP remains committed to a sustainable and rights-based anti-drug campaign, reinforcing collaboration between law enforcement, local government units, and communities to achieve long-term success in the fight against illegal drugs, said PNP Public Information Office chief, Colonel Randulf T. Tuaño.
The performance of all 41,906 BADACs nationwide are being assessed regularly by the Department of Interior and Local Government now under Secretary Juanito Victor ‘Junvic’ C. Remulla to ensure their continued progress and improved performance in the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of anti-illegal drugs activities within their locality.
