PDEA releases directives to boost drug war

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has released its official operational directives to strengthen its lead role in the war on drugs following the return of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and other law enforcement agencies to the operations.

PDEA’s Memorandum Circular 2017-044 signed Dec. 12, defined the respective roles of law enforcement agencies that would provide “active support” to the PDEA.

PDEA, stipulated by law to be the lead agency in the campaign against illegal drugs, also encouraged the use of body cameras in anti-drug operations and the tapping of media personnel, especially in high-impact operations, to “ensure airtight cases.”

The memo also highlighted the upholding of constitutional and other laws during the conduct of anti-illegal drug operations, complying with the policies under Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

The PNP and other law enforcement agencies (OLEAs) were brought back into the drug war this December less than two months after Duterte ordered them out amid mounting criticisms from various sectors due to allegations of abuse.

In the new provisions, PDEA would take the lead role on all joint anti-drug operations, effectively limiting OLEAs to support units.

Roles of all operating units, be it initiated by PDEA or OLEAs, shall also be clearly stated and reflected in the operational reports, the memo stated.