P11.57-B illegal drugs destroyed in Cordillera

By Dexter A. See

BAGUIO CITY — The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Cordillera reported the seizure and destruction of P11.574 billion worth of illegal and dangerous drugs in the region last year.

The PDEA said 115 anti-illegal drug operations implemented in coordination with the Philippine National Police and other law enforcement agencies in the region resulted to this.

A total of 112 persons were also arrested including seven drug personalities under target list and 12 in watch list while 86 cases were filed.

PDEA also reported the neutralization of eight local drug groups. Information Officer Emely Fama of PDEA they had to enhance their drug demand reduction strategy since the tourism potential of Cordillera and the emergence of gambling in the region also attracted illegal drug abuse and demand.

“Ang drug abuse sumasabay iyan sa turismo especially on areas with many night spots and gambling joints,” Fama said.

Fama identified Bakun and Kibungan in Benguet, Tinglayan and Tabuk in Kalinga, Lagawe and Banaue in Ifugao, and Sagada, Mountain Province as PDEA’s priority areas as far as illegal drugs are concerned.