Arrested drug users cover their face seen in a file photo.
QUEZON CITY, Philippines — The Philippine Anti-illegal Drugs Group (AIDG) has confirmed the increase in number of drug users in the country.
According to AIDG Chief of Staff P/SSupt. Leonardo Suan, the Dangerous Drugs Board recorded a total of 1.8 million in 2015 which is a significant increase from 1.2 million in 2014.
Suan said, one factor to this is the rise in volume of supply.
“Our streets are flooded because more and more productions are being discovered in the country, specifically the production of methamphetamine,” Suan explained.
He said, majority of the users are male aged 30, single and commonly has a monthly income of P15,000 and up. Most of them live in urban areas.
Suan said from over 42, 000 barangays in the country, about 11, 321 are affected by illegal drugs or 26.93%. Most cases are recorded in Region 4A with a total number of 1, 980 barangays or about 49.28%.
Thus, AIDG is working harder to combat illegal drugs in the country.
Since 1997, they have raided 98 shabu laboratory, 46 of which were in Metro Manila while 18 others were in Regions 3 and 4A.
“We will pursue these street pushers. They are the first to give us problems,” Suan said.
AIDG appeals to the public to cooperate and report any barangay involved in illegal drug operations so that the country’s problems on illegal drugs can be solved immediately.
“Let us report any illegal drug personality in your area. This is the proper time that we address this problem on illegal drugs penetrating our barangays.”
Suan admits that the former administration fell short in providing support for police campaigns against illegal drugs. But they are happy to know that the next administration is vocal about its support to their operation which is an added morale booster to all policemen who are eager to arrest personalities involved in illegal drug operations.
(LEA YLAGAN/UNTV NEWS)
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