NCRPO vows to sustain anti-drug gains
The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) is committed to sustaining its gains against illegal drugs in Metro Manila as it directed all five police districts to maintain intelligence-driven operations against drug suppliers, distributors, and networks.
From 4 October to 10 October, NCRPO conducted 206 anti-drug operations, resulting in the arrest of 265 individuals and the seizure of illegal drugs valued at approximately P5.927 million. These results underscore the continuing efforts of Metro Manila police to disrupt drug distribution and prevent dangerous substances from reaching communities.
NCRPO chief Christopher Abrahano said the reported assessment by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) regarding a scarcity of shabu in Metro Manila highlights the importance of sustaining pressure on illegal drug supply networks. He stressed, however, that the campaign must go beyond street-level operations by tracing supply sources, identifying distributors, dismantling drug dens, and pursuing individuals who finance or protect illegal drug activities.
“We will not be complacent with the gains we have achieved. If reports point to a shortage of shabu in the market, we must sustain our operations and intensify efforts to identify the networks behind its distribution. Our objective is to disrupt the illegal drug trade at every level and protect our communities from its harmful effects,” Abrahano said.
PDEA spokesman Attorney Joseph Frederick Calulut made the remark as he confirmed that the charter flight from Laos for a P3.54 billion drug shipment was supposed to land in Metro Manila. A Filipino national was arrested after Laotian authorities discovered the illegal drugs placed inside suitcases.
Abrahano directed police commanders to strengthen intelligence gathering, validate community reports, and coordinate with PDEA and other concerned agencies to support targeted operations. All enforcement activities must be conducted in accordance with the law and established police procedures, with evidence properly secured and the rights of all individuals respected.
The NCRPO chief also called on barangay officials and residents to help identify suspected drug dens and report illegal drug activities through proper channels. He emphasized that sustained cooperation between law enforcement and communities is essential to preventing drug networks from re-establishing their operations.