Robredo to President Duterte: Run after big fish in drugs trade

Vice President Leni Robredo

CEBU CITY — Vice President Leni Robredo on Thursday reminded President Duterte that the success of the drug war wouldn’t be realized by killing drug suspects.

“People must learn about what happened in the over two and a half years. Many died but the problem of illegal drugs still persists. Isn’t this enough proof that killing people will not solve the problem?” she said in an interview at the Sacred Heart Center in Cebu City.

Robredo gave this reaction after President Duterte on Wednesday warned that his anti-drugs campaign would be “harsher in the days to come.”

To be successful, Robredo called on the President to go after the big fish in the drugs trade.

“International drug cartels have reportedly entered our country. Why don’t you run after these people instead of killing ordinary Filipinos? Those who bring in illegal drugs must be held answerable. The question is why do illegal drugs continue to enter our country?” she asked.

Even before he won the country’s top post, President Duterte has been pushing for ending the proliferation of illegal drugs in the Philippines.

He said he would fulfill his promise to end the illegal drugs problem during his term.

“I have three years left, and I’m putting a notice to everybody and the same sloganeering. Maybe it leaves a bad taste in the mouth every time I say it, but I have to say it. At least you are forewarned,” Duterte said.