The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) destroyed through thermolysis the various drugs seized in anti-illegal drugs operations in a waste management facility in Trece Martires, Cavite on Thursday, March 16.
The value of the destroyed drugs was estimated at around P20 billion, the largest in the history of drug destruction by PDEA.
This includes around 990 kilograms of methamphetamine or shabu confiscated in Manila last October 2022 from arrested MSgt. Rodolfo Mayo Jr., a former Philippine National Police (PNP) Drug Enforcement Group member.
“Kailangan talaga natin na ipakita na we are really… we are really going to do the drug destruction as often as we can. Kasi hindi pwedeng magtagal sa evidence room namin ang mga ganito,” USec. Moro Virgilio Lazo, PDEA Director General, said.
Meanwhile, following the recommendation of some senators during a Senate inquiry on Wednesday, Lazo said they are trying to get in touch again with the informant who said that 30 percent of seized drugs are being offered as commission.
“Kung willing man silang i-divulge ‘yung pangalan ng law enforcers na pumayag doon sa scheme na gusto nila, they get a portion of the seized drugs,” he said.
“Kaya nga ine-emphasize ko na I am just relaying a story in my meeting with them ‘yung usapan namin. Doon lang ako dapat. Ayaw kong isipin na mayroon akong sinasama na past administration, may sinasamang unit. Wala. Sinasabi ko lang kung ano ‘yung napag-usapan namin doon,” he added.
He said such a scheme was not allowed, and that only monetary reward is given.
Former chiefs of the PDEA also denied the alleged commission system. – AG/Patrick de Jesus-cf
