PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has recalibrated the police force’s campaign against illegal drugs, focusing on high-value drug personalities rather than street-level pushers and users.
Marbil yesterday announced the change in the PNP strategy, saying: “Our previous strategies concentrated too much on cutting off the heads, but we need to target the body – the entire supply chain and the sources driving the drug trade.”
Under the recalibrated strategy, Marbil said the PNP would intensify intelligence operations and pursue stronger community engagement to identify and dismantle drug trafficking networks.
“We are now focusing on high-value drug personalities and the movements of illegal drugs across the country,” said Marbil, adding that street-level pushers and users are often the victims of the drug problem.
“These are the real targets–those who orchestrate the trade and profit from it, not the street-level pushers and users who are often victims of circumstance,” added Marbil.
Marbil also said there will be less violence in the war against illegal drugs.
Thousands were killed during the previous administration of President Duterte, prompting an International Criminal Court investigation against the former chief executive and other officials for crimes against humanity.
“We aim to address the drug problem without resorting to bloodshed. By focusing on the real culprits and protecting the victims, we can make our communities safer while respecting human rights,” said Marbil.
Marbil said the change in strategy is a crucial step in achieving President Marcos Jr.’s vision for a safer and more secure Philippines.
“With this approach, we are not only saving lives but also working toward a better future for our nation. We are committed to addressing the drug issue with compassion, strategy, and adherence to the rule of law,” said Marbil.
During the celebration of the 123rd anniversary of the police service last Thursday, Marbil reported that P36.5 billion worth of illegal drugs have been seized under the Marcos administration, specifically from July 1, 2022 up to July 31 this year.
He said the seized illegal drugs included the 1.4 tons of shabu worth P9.68 billion seized in Alitagtag, Batangas last April, the largest drug haul in Philippine history.
