The Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) joined forces today in the ceremonial destruction of seized dangerous drugs and illegal drug paraphernalia, reaffirming the government’s resolute commitment to combating the illegal drug trade.
The activity, led by PDEA Director General Isagani R. Nerez, highlights the destruction of ₱5.32 billion worth of illegal drugs. Secretary Oscar Valenzuela, in his first participation in such an activity as the Chairperson of the DDB, described the event as both symbolic and strategic in reinforcing public trust in law enforcement and government action.
“Our presence here today is a strong reaffirmation of our resolve to dismantle the structures that enable the drug trade, uphold the rule of law, and protect Filipino communities,” Secretary Valenzuela said.
From January to March 2025, over 10,000 anti-drug operations have been conducted by PDEA and its law enforcement partners, resulting in nearly 13,500 arrests. Since July 2022, authorities have seized more than PHP 60 billion worth of narcotics, arrested over 145,000 individuals, including 9,000 high-value targets, and dismantled 1,439 drug dens and four clandestine laboratories.
The government’s efforts are guided by the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 and the Philippine Anti-Illegal Drugs Strategy (PADS), which promote a whole-of-government approach to address the drug problem.
A significant milestone under this approach is the success of the Barangay Drug Clearing Program, which has reduced the number of drug-affected barangays by 43.56% as of the end of 2024. Secretary Valenzuela emphasized that the integrity of this program is paramount: “Being drug-cleared must mean being truly drug-cleared, with rigorous and verifiable criteria.”
Alongside supply reduction, the DDB also gives equal importance to drug demand reduction strategies by continuing to expand efforts in preventive education, community-based interventions, and treatment and rehabilitation services. “We believe that recovery is a right. It is our duty to provide compassionate, rights-based, and evidence-informed care to persons who use drugs,” he noted.
During the event, Secretary Valenzuela also paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of law enforcement personnel, particularly those who recently lost their lives in the line of duty. Their dedication underscores the risks faced by those on the frontlines and the importance of sustained public support for anti-drug operations.
The DDB reiterates its call for collective action. A successful and enduring response to the drug problem requires the continued engagement of all stakeholders—government, civil society, and the Filipino people.
This renewed commitment aligns with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., who emphasized a more humane, strategic, and community-centered approach in the national campaign against illegal drugs.
Under the Bagong Pilipinas vision, the government places a high premium on safeguarding public health and dismantling the networks that perpetuate drug dependence and organized crime.
The Dangerous Drugs Board remains committed to a coordinated government effort in drug prevention and control, guided by principles of justice and compassion to promote a safer Philippines.
