Robin: Intensify drive vs illegal drugs
SEN. Robinhood Padilla, during the public hearing Wednesday, March 15, 2023 of the Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, enjoined law enforcement agencies to intensify their campaign against illegal drugs which continue to worsen and proliferate especially with the possible existence of so-called “narco-politics.”
Padilla said that in the United States, their problem is fentanyl which is destroying the youth not only in far-flung areas but also in big cities.
The committee is hearing the alleged involvement of policemen and politicians in illegal drug trade, including the practice of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) of paying informants or assets 30 percent of confiscated drugs.
Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa who presidend over the public hearing expressed alarm over reports of the 30 percent payout to informants by PDEA.
Dela Rosa said that this is unimaginable and tantamount to a violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
“Our law enforcement agencies have accomplished so much during the past and this present administration. Many have upheld their commitments to perform their sworn duty to earn the trust of the people by serving them with honor and integrity,” the senator said.
“But it seems that there are still some who fearlessly destroy the image and integrity of the PNP and PDEA to fight against illegal drugs. If evidence without integrity is ignored in court, what more if the services of law enforcement agents lose integrity?” Sen. dela Rosa asked in Filipino.
Padilla warned against alleged narcopoliticians involved in the drug trade and that the fight against drugs should be continued and intensified.
“I hope this hearing will be a signal for us to continue our fight against drugs, especially now that what we can say… that narco politicians are really involved,” he added.
