4-1-2024 (MANILA) The Philippines made significant strides in its fight against illegal drugs in 2023, with the arrest of 56,495 drug-related suspects and the confiscation of illegal drugs worth over 10.41 billion pesos (approximately 187 million U.S. dollars), according to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) on Thursday.
Citing a national police report, the PCO highlighted that law enforcement conducted more than 44,000 anti-illegal drug operations throughout the year. The success of the government’s anti-illicit drugs campaign was attributed to a new strategy that focuses on rehabilitation, reintegration, and preventive education programs specifically aimed at the youth.
Despite these efforts, the Philippines continues to grapple with the challenges posed by illicit drug use and trafficking within its borders.
The current administration, under the leadership of President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos, has set a target to achieve 100 percent drug-free villages by 2028, marking the end of his single, six-year presidency.
