DDB PR
The Dangerous Drugs Board denounces the findings of the International Criminal Court in a seeming move to discredit the efforts of the Philippine government in the campaign against illegal drugs.
Time and again, the DDB has openly presented the Philippine government’s plan of action to address the national drug abuse situation. Governed by the Philippine Anti-Illegal Drugs Strategy or PADS, all agencies of the government have been directed to implement initiatives to cut the supply of and demand for drugs.
A whole-of-nation approach is undertaken that unites, balances, and strengthens complementing law enforcement and public health strategies. Programs are grounded on evidence-based approaches and culturally-relevant models that adhere to the rule of law, respect human rights, and support international obligations.
The success of these interventions is felt on the ground as the recent household survey on the patterns and trends of drug abuse in the country reveals that 65.8% are aware of the government’s campaign against drugs and of those who are aware, 81.6% approves of the campaign. A high number of respondents also believe that the current drug situation under the present administration has slightly improved (34.7%) to greatly improved (45.5%).
While the Philippine government strengthens the anti-drug campaign, it also reinforces the sense of accountability among front liners and duty bearers. Cases filed against erring officers are being dealt with according to the provisions of the law with corresponding sanctions and penalties as prescribed by due process.
Moreover, a panel has been created to review all anti-illegal drug operations. As a member of the panel created by the Philippine government, the DDB attests to the objective and judicious review of the cases. The necessary policies have been clearly laid out and none of these permit abuses of authority.
The DDB urges the ICC to remain impartial and non-selective. Full respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of States as well as the principle of non-intervention in the internal affairs of Sates is a precept which must be observed by all.
