Lacson: PDEA head should have a cabinet rank

The head of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) should hold a cabinet rank to boost government’s campaign against illegal drugs.

PDEA is currently headed by Director General Isidro Lapeña and he has the rank of an Undersecretary.

PDEA and the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) should also be merged.

These are among the recommendations contained in the Committee Report being prepared by Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs.

Senator Panfilo Lacson heads the committee.

Lacson says, the name of PDEA will also be changed.

He adds, “PRADA” came up as one of the suggested new names for the agency but lawmakers intend to find another name since the word already represents a famous brand in the international fashion industry.