Makati Mayor Abby Binay issued a stern warning to locals and foreigners involved in the illegal drug trade following the seizure of P2.7 billion worth of suspected shabu from a warehouse in Barangay San Antonio early Wednesday.
Initial news reports stated that police apprehended a Chinese national during a police buy-bust operation, which led to the discovery of more than 400 kilograms of the drugs concealed in dog food packaging inside the warehouse.
In a statement, Binay made it clear that drug dealers and syndicates will not be tolerated in Makati and will be dealt with to the fullest extent of the law.
“Let me remind everyone, both locals and foreigners, of Makati’s ‘zero tolerance’ policy against all forms of illegal drugs and substances. There will be no special treatment, no sacred cows when drugs are involved,” Mayor Abby said.
“The full force of the law will be brought down on anyone who would dare to deter us from attaining a ‘Drug-Free Makati’,” she stressed.
The mayor also expressed alarm over the huge volume of illegal drugs that had found its way into the city, citing the vigilance of authorities that averted potentially disastrous consequences.
“Were it not for the vigilance and diligence of our police force, over 400 kilograms of illegal drugs would have been indiscriminately peddled on our streets and other infamous places for drug pushing in Metro Manila and even in the provinces. The burden it would have brought on families, communities, and on society as a whole is immeasurable,” Mayor Abby stated.
The mayor also called on the local police force, residents and other stakeholders to continue working with the city government to protect homes and communities from illegal drugs.
“I call on the Makati Police and all who make up the city’s protective sector: let us strengthen our collaboration and intensify our efforts to eradicate the drug menace in Makati,” she stated.
“I also urge our beloved Makatizens to keep a tight watch on their neighborhoods and promptly report drug-related illegal activities to the authorities. Let us not allow our homes and communities to be destroyed by drug syndicates and their protectors,” Binay added.
The local chief executive also underscored the consistent support given by the city to national government agencies tasked with fighting illegal drugs and making the entire country drug-free.
“We have consistently supported the DILG, PDEA, PNP and other agencies involved in the nationwide drug-clearing program, providing added logistics and personnel for its effective implementation in our own barangays,” she said.