In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s comprehensive anti-drug strategy, Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief P/Gen. Nicolas Torre III challenged police officers to take decisive action against illegal drugs.

In a Palace press briefing on Wednesday, Torre ordered PNP personnel to arrest offenders, file strong cases, and convince prosecutors to hold perpetrators accountable.

The PNP chief laid out a clear challenge to the police force to ensure their cases against arrested drug suspects are solid and prosecutable.

“Sa ngayon ang napapansin kasi na palaging sinasabi bumalik na naman ang droga diyan sa kalsada, et cetera, et cetera,” Torre said.

“Ito naman challenge ko sa ating mga kapulisan: Hulihin ninyo, dalhin ninyo sa piskal, taasan ninyo ng kamay sa inyong affidavit na kumbinsihin ninyo ang fiscal na sila ay may kasalanan, sila ay dapat makulong,” the PNP Chief said.

Beyond arrests and legal action, Torre also acknowledged the role of rehabilitation in addressing the root of the drug problem. He encouraged families and individuals involved in drugs to voluntarily seek help, assuring them of the PNP’s support.

“Ngayon kung sa tingin naman nila na itong mga tao na ito, sa mga pamilya naman, ‘O para hindi kayo makulong ay lumapit na lang kayo sa pulis, magpa-rehab kayo.’ We will help them on that aspect,” Torre said.

He pointed out the voluntary rehabilitation of drug users as a crucial component of the government’s balanced approach to addressing the drug problem, combining law enforcement with health and community-based interventions.

The PNP’s stance signals a comprehensive approach to the illegal drugs issue, focusing on both vigorous law enforcement and community-based recovery efforts. | PND