Wednesday, January 10, 2007 Anti-drug agency doubles efforts in drugs monitoring By Ruby P. Silubrico
THE Philippine Drugs Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region 6 is doubling its efforts in monitoring drugs personalities and the entry of illegal drugs now that the Dinagyang Festival is approaching.
PDEA 6 Regional Director Rolen Balquin said he would use all resources to zero-in on the activities of some drugs personalities in Western Visayas so that these will be intercepted.
He added that apart from conducting buy-bust operations, they would employ another strategy.
Balquin admitted that he has difficulty in arresting drug pushers because of the lack in manpower. His personnel were already identified by those involved in illegal drugs, that's why they are having a hard time acquiring a search warrant.
That is why PDEA will hire additional personnel including a lawyer who will help the agency in filing cases and other legal matters.
Balquin revealed that the cost of illegal drugs has increased from P15,000 to P20,000 for every five grams.
"This is maybe because of the limited supply," he said.
