The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in Central Visayas announced on Monday that it is intensifying illegal drugs monitoring especially on shabu and ecstasy as the Christmas season and Sinulog Festival in January 2024 celebrations draw near.

PDEA-7 spokesperson Leia Alcantara told DAILY TRIBUNE that they wanted to prevent an increase in illegal drug activities during festive celebrations.

"We are anticipating the possible increase in the demand of dangerous drugs especially Christmas as bonuses are releases, people have money and many opportunities to earn money during the festive celebrations," Alcantara said.

She cited data from previous years that more people look for shabu and ecstasy in the months of December and January, adding that shabu is the most preferred drug as it is cheaper and readily available while those who can afford are opting to buy ecstasy which are being sold between P1,500 to P1,700 per pill.

"So, we have heightened our monitoring not only in Cebu province but in other three provinces covered by the region. So, we have ongoing heightened monitoring on shipments, possible arrival and distribution of dangerous drugs," Alcantara said.

She also disclosed that ecstasy is commonly used during rave parties attended by those with money.

The PDEA-7 is in the process of verifying reports on the recent transport of ecstasy to Cebu City as it also formed a partnership with security networks of bars and entertainment establishments in the city for them to enforce their drug-free workplace program.

Under the program, employees are made aware of the ill effects of illegal drugs use and are made to understand of the need to keep their workplace drug-free.

PDEA-7 also continue to monitor and provide assistance in large gatherings by deploying personnel and canines to help detect the presence of illegal drugs. Event organizers also adopted such protocols.

Ecstacy based from previous arrests and seizures came from European countries like Netherlands. It is being shipped through packages by air or sea.