MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA) — The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA-BARMM) is championing the Barangay Drug Clearing Program (BDCP) as a powerful weapon in slashing drug-related crimes across Lanao del Sur.
During the second quarter joint meeting of the Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) and the Provincial Anti-drug Abuse Council (PADAC) on June 26, PDEA-BARMM Regional Director Gil P. Castro highlighted the program’s effectiveness, particularly when coupled with strong collaboration from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), and local government leaders.
Castro emphasized the undeniable link between drug use, especially methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu), and a surge in crimes like violence against women and children (VAWC), theft, and motornapping. He cited data indicating that 80 percent of crimes in the region are drug-related, with half of those incarcerated facing charges under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act (Republic Act 9165) for drug pushing and selling.
“So, if we can clear the barangay and subject the personality to intervention, we will be able to prevent killing, VAWC, theft, and motornapping that were infused by the use of illegal drugs,” he emphasized.
The PDEA-BARMM director also expressed his support for all municipalities within BARMM that are striving to become drug-free.
He is optimistic that BDCP, along with a comprehensive policy and program strategy, as well as the support of the AFP, PNP, and local authorities, will significantly reduce drug supply and associated criminal activity, ultimately saving lives.
“Nandito po ang PDEA, nakahanda po kaming tumulong at magbigay-tulong sa lahat ng mga stakeholders natin (PDEA is here; we stand ready to extend a helping hand and collaborate with all stakeholders),” Castro said. (ADJ/PIA-10)
