Ilocos Region, Philippines - The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) reported the seizure of approximately PHP57.3 million worth of shabu and marijuana in the Ilocos Region from January to October 2023. This substantial confiscation is a part of the agency's intensified efforts to combat illegal drug trafficking in the region.
According to Philippines News Agency, the agency conducted 611 anti-illegal drugs operations during this period. These operations resulted in the confiscation of 2.1 kilograms of shabu, 11 milliliters of liquid shabu, and 30 kilograms of dried marijuana leaves, plants, and stalks. Plaza revealed that 721 suspects were arrested in these operations, with 89 classified as high-value targets, including target-listed individuals, drug den maintainers and visitors, and marijuana cultivators.
The PDEA has also established 46 Balay Silangan Reformation Centers across the region, aiming to rehabilitate and reintegrate drug surrenderers into society. These centers, which include 15 in Ilocos Norte, 11 each in Ilocos Sur and La Union, and nine in Pangasinan, have seen 718 drug reformists graduate, with 617 currently being served. Additionally, 2,563 barangays in the region have been declared drug cleared, while 366 remain affected by drug activities.
Plaza highlighted plans to enhance airport and seaport interdiction by deploying nine agents and eight K9 dogs to airports this year and seaports the following year, with units already in place at bus terminals. This move is part of the broader strategy to protect communities from drug trafficking. The PDEA is also advocating for a 'drug-free workplace' program, particularly in government offices, and collaborates with local government units and schools to reduce drug demand through symposiums and seminars.