PDEA backs sanctions vs b’gays without anti-drug councils

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) is backing the initiative of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to file administrative cases against officials who fail to establish barangay anti-drug abuse councils (BADACs).

PDEA director general Aaron Aquino yesterday issued the statement in response to the impending issuance of a DILG memorandum warning barangay officials that they will face charges for dereliction of duty for failure to establish functional BADACs.

In accordance with the regulations of the Dangerous Drugs Board, local government units are directed to earmark a portion of their annual budgets for anti-drug operations, including the activation of BADACs.

“Failure to do so shall be a ground for disapproval of their annual budget and possible filing of appropriate charges pursuant to the local government code and anti-drug law,” Aquino said in a statement.

The PDEA chief reiterated the importance of BADACs in the government’s anti-drug campaign.

“They were deputized to plan and implement strategic policies, programs and projects on drug prevention and control, given the political and police powers of the barangay to administer the affairs of the community,” Aquino said.

“In the absence of a functioning BADACs, there is a high probability that these barangays have officials who are involved in the illegal drug trade, or their barangays are havens of illegal drug activities,” he added.

Aquino urged barangay officials to do their share in addressing the drug problem in the country.

“The battle against illegal drugs at the community and street levels definitely starts in barangays. BADACs are important in maintaining a pro-active stand in shielding the people from the drug menace,” he said.