‘BANTAY DAGAT, BANTAY DROGA’

ENLISTING the Bantay Dagat in the campaign against illegal drugs in Iloilo province is a positive initiative.

By including Bantay Dagat, which primarily focuses on combating illegal fishing, in the anti-drug campaign, civil and police authorities can leverage its presence and experience in coastal and shoreline areas.

This expansion of surveillance to include the coastlines, especially in the northern and southern parts of Iloilo, can significantly enhance the detection and prevention of drug smuggling through these areas.

Ports and coastlines are often used as entry and exit points for illegal drugs, and having a dedicated team like Bantay Dagat keeping watch can close the gaps in these critical areas.

But there are concerns that the provincial government led by Gov. Toto Defensor Jr. must consider.

Expanding Bantay Dagat’s responsibilities to include monitoring for illegal drugs may require additional training and resources. The personnel originally tasked with combating illegal fishing may need specialized training to effectively detect and respond to drug smuggling activities.

Ensuring that they are adequately equipped and knowledgeable is crucial for this initiative’s success. Indi pwede nga bugsay lang kag punot ang dala sang Bantay Dagat. Tarso!

Also, effective collaboration between Bantay Dagat, local police, and other law enforcement agencies is essential for this initiative to work. There must be clear communication channels and protocols for reporting and responding to drug-related activities. Coordination ensures that efforts are not duplicated and that there is a unified approach to tackling the drug problem.

The last thing we want to hear is magtinudlo-anay ang pulis kag ang Bantay Dagat kun nalusotan sila droga sa mga baybayon. Haslo!

mo,