The Philippine National Police (PNP) has vowed to intensify its campaign against street-level drug pushers and users under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

In a radio interview Sunday, PNP Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo emphasized that the organization will give equal attention to street-level pushers, users, and their sources.

“We will also focus on street-level pushers and users because they are in the communities and barangays and could be the direct sources for these users,” Fajardo said in Filipino.

She added that the PNP plans to strengthen the capacity of Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils and local government units to foster public understanding that the fight against illegal drugs should not be viewed solely from a law enforcement perspective.

“Barangays should be able to pass anti-illegal drug initiatives and programs at the local level,” she added.

Higher number

Fajardo also highlighted that the first three years of the Marcos administration have seen a significant increase in the value of confiscated illegal drugs compared to the previous administration.

“Based on data since the start of the president’s administration, P43.3 billion worth of illegal drugs have been seized — a significant increase compared to P14.3 billion confiscated during the first three years of the previous administration,” she said.

She also noted that the PNP has arrested many high-value individuals involved in large-scale drug distribution.

“We have been actively pursuing large shipments of drugs. We will not stop there, which is why we have strengthened our international cooperation,” Fajardo added.