Cooperation among countries is key in fighting illegal drugs – PDEA
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has maintained that strengthened cooperation among countries remains a key factor in curbing global illegal drug trade.
At the recent 24th Asia Pacific Drug Enforcement Conference in Tokyo, Japan, Irish Calaguas, PDEA Acting Deputy Director General for Administration cited that the enhanced cooperation of PDEA and other global anti-narcotic groups made head ways with the arrests of international drug syndicates members operating in the Philippines.
Calaguas, who represented PDEA Director General Aaron Aquino, reported the dismantling of clandestine laboratories in Ibaan, Bataan and the first ecstasy laboratory in Malabon City last April 2018 as concrete examples of the good collaboration with the National Narcotics Control Commission, Ministry of Public Security of the People’s Republic of China.
She also cited the good relationship of the Philippines with other countries such as the USA, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, and others as a major factor in the successful war against drugs that the country achieved despite extreme challenges.
Calaguas’ presentation tackled the Philippine Drug Situation and the Drug Control Strategies. She received positive reactions from member countries after explaining the harm reduction programs of PDEA exemplified by the Balay Silangan (House of Hope) Reformation Centers and Sagip Batang Solvent (save the children who are sniffing solvent).
Balay Silangan Reformation Program, a brain child of Aquino, is a scheme aimed at teaching drug offenders livelihood programs and life skills and preparing them for reintegration to society.
To date, a total of 24 Balay Silangan have been inaugurated nationwide.