President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. acknowledged that the country still faces a drug problem, as he ordered the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to intercept smuggling routes and immediately destroy seized narcotics to prevent re-entry into the streets.
In the second episode of his podcast, released on Wednesday, June 18, Marcos said the focus remains on dismantling syndicates and shutting down supply routes.
“We still have a drug problem in this country,” he said. “Sabi ko continue to… hulihin niyo ‘yung malalaki tsaka puntahan ninyo kung saan pumapasok, ‘yun ang isara natin.”
He said the PNP and PCG have been directed to monitor drug entry points and ensure swift destruction of seized drugs.
“Ayaw kong bumalik sa merkado ‘yan. Sirain na ninyo kaagad. As quickly as possible,” he said.
“Make sure na nandun kayo para pag sinabing so many tons, ilang tonelada, ‘yan talaga ang nandyan. Hindi nababawasan. Bilangin ninyo. Tapos buhusan nyo ng gasolina, sunugin na ninyo,” he added.
SMALL-SCALE DEALERS
Meanwhile, President Marcos said that while the administration’s priority is to dismantle high-level drug networks, there were signs that small-scale dealers are returning to communities.
“May balita na bumabalik-balik sa mga bara-barangay, ‘yung mga small time,” he said.
The President said this is where programs like Cops on the Beat become essential.
“Kahit sino kung dealer, hindi ka naman siguro mapapaiwan doon na mahuhuli ka lang ng pulis,” he said.
He said regular patrols are intended not only to apprehend offenders, but also to deter criminal activity and protect communities before problems escalate. (Argyll Geducos)
