TO beef up its operational capability in addressing the problem of illegal drugs, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency has equipped itself with more surveillance communications, protective and office equipment and even motor vehicles worth P90,405,940.
“With the persistent threat of illegal drugs in the country, PDEA continues to build up its capabilities, augmenting its operating units and drug enforcement officers with the essential resources to thrive well in the war against drugs,” director general Aaron Aquino.
To better monitor drug suspects and their illegal drug activities, he said, the agency purchased surveillance and intelligence and communication equipment consisting of 20 remote controlled aircrafts or drones and 166 handheld radios with a total worth of P10,270,000.
According to Aquino, the newly acquired rveillance and communication equipment would strengthen PDEA’s intelligence and information-gathering and investigative capabilities.
“In addition, PDEA procured 100 body cameras worth P2,900,000 to be worn by our agents during operations. They will be accompanied by members of the press or media presence during operations to ensure a culture of transparency,” he added.
The agency also procured 753 tactical helmets and 23 reloading machines worth P25,714,995.
“The firearm reloading and protective equipment are the newest addition to PDEA’s armory. These will increase our armaments in drug law enforcement, and will provide our operatives better protection during actual engagements,” Aquino said.
To help boost the PDEA’s productivity of its personnel, the agency also purchased 470 printers and 100 laptop computers worth P11,293,245.