The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced that its “recalibrated and bloodless” anti-illegal drugs campaign has led to the seizure of P20.7 billion worth of narcotics this year even as law enforcers try to keep the use of force to a bare minimum.
On Sunday, PNP chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil said that amount only represents illegal drugs confiscated from January 1 to December 15 but already constitutes a “staggering” 101 percent increase compared to their whole-year performance in 2023.
He disclosed that 46,821 anti-drug operations were conducted by various PNP units nationwide during the period covered, leading to the arrest of 57,129 drug suspects.
Marbil explained that the Marcos administration’s anti-drug campaign targets mainly high-value individuals while ensuring the protection of suspects’ rights and affording them due process.
The country’s top cop said that the drugs confiscated within the period consisted of methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu), marijuana, ecstasy, cocaine, ketamine and kush, and had a combined weight of over 8 metric tons.
“This extraordinary achievement is a testament to our focused operations against high-value individuals in the illegal drug trade. Our commitment to a calibrated anti-drug campaign, which puts a premium on human rights, has proven that we can dismantle drug syndicates without unnecessary loss of life,” Marbil said.
Among police units, Police Regional Office 4A (Calabarzon) recorded the highest haul with P9.9 billion worth of seized drugs, followed by the PNP Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG) with P2.4 billion.
“I commend our police officers who put their lives on the line to ensure that no illegal drugs make their way into our communities. Their sacrifices and dedication are instrumental in safeguarding our citizens and dismantling the structures of drug syndicates,” the PNP chief said of police personnel.
Marbil pointed out that the national police’s success reflects its renewed commitment to eradicating illegal drugs while adhering to legal and ethical standards, proving that decisive action can go hand-in-hand with respect for human rights.
He said that the PNP is committed to sustaining its momentum in combating illegal drugs without losing sight of the value of every Filipino’s life.
“This accomplishment is not just a victory for the PNP but for the Filipino people who deserve safer and drug-free communities. Let this achievement inspire us to continue working together in our fight against illegal drugs,” the police chief noted.
