Malacañang on Sunday welcomed the recent call of Pope Francis for unity in combatting drug trade worldwide, saying it was a boost to the country’s own war on drugs.
“The remarks of Pope Francis are not only relevant but also timely when it comes to our country’s present situation…We consider Vatican’s remarks as a boost in our campaign as we battle the twin evils of crimes and drugs,” Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said.
“Pope Francis urged governments to combat drug addiction and courageously undertake the fight against those who, in the Pontiff’s words, ‘deal in death.’ This is precisely the rationale behind the President’s war on illegal drugs in the Philippines: To save the young and future generations of Filipinos from the drug scourge,” Panelo added.
During the Vatican conference held from Nov. 29 to Dec. 1, with the theme “Drugs and Addictions: An Obstacle to Integral Human Development.” Pope Francis said it is the duty of governments to lead the fight against drug producers and traffickers.
“All of us are called to combat the production, processing, and distribution of drugs worldwide…It is the duty and responsibility of governments to courageously undertake this fight against those who deal in death,” the Pope said.
Panelo said President Rodrigo Duterte will remain resolute in implementing the war on drugs even as his critics continue to criticize efforts to arrest or neutralize drug lords and runners.
“Laudable developments have been achieved by the current administration in this regard, notwithstanding the noise coming from the loud minority composed of his detractors and critics here and abroad,” Panelo said.