AFP may be tapped vs int’l drug rings

President Duterte alerted security forces on international syndicates behind the proliferation of illegal drugs in the Philippines as he vowed to run after groups that pose a threat to the country.

Duterte discussed the threat posed by Chinese gangsters and illegal drugs during a command conference with military officials last Tuesday at Malacañang.

“I was discussing with them about drugs, terrorism and China connections and problems that we also found in Marawi. It has nothing to do with China’s government. We only have deep respect for these people,” Duterte said during a dinner he hosted for columnists last Tuesday.

“But the unfettered migration of Chinese criminals is the problem… the international gangsters are more dangerous,” he added.

Saying the 14K triad based in Hong Kong and Bamboo gang of Taiwan have taken over the narcotics trade in the country, Duterte called the attention of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP).

“When you destroy my country, I will go after you. The act of one is the act of all. They are organized crime, peddlers… You have to fight the organization,” he said.

Duterte said he has asked the military to work with the police to counter the threat posed by international drug rings.

“I told the police, how far can you go? If they can’t, I will just have to rely on the Army,” he said.

The President also stressed that he does not mind being ousted because of his crackdown on illegal drugs, which has so far left thousands of people dead. He also gave assurance that his anti-drug campaign would run after drug offenders, regardless of their social status.

“I cannot stay beyond six years. My duty is to protect our people and country. I will not step down from the presidency being inutile, but I’d rather be ousted for doing the right thing. I am here to exact obedience, whether rich or poor,” he said.