The release of the matrix, “Lanao del Sur (LDS) Drug Trade Linked Diagram,” underscores the ties that bind between illegal drugs and criminal and terrorist activities.

Local politicians in Mindanao adversely affected by the government’s campaign against illegal drugs have financed the Daesh-inspired Maute Group, whose attempt to undermine our sovereignty resulted in the rebellion in Marawi.

It is therefore imperative that we destroy the drug apparatus not only to protect the Filipino family and the youth of the country but also to secure our communities.