PNP to extend ‘full assistance’ to Robredo in leading drug war

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) vowed on Tuesday to extend full assistance to Vice President Leni Robredo in the drug war, after she was appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte as co-chairperson of the Inter-Agency Committee on Anti-Illegal Drugs (ICAD).

“The PNP will comply with, and abide by the order of the President,” Brig. Gen. Bernard Banac, PNP spokesperson, said in a statement.

“The PNP will extend its utmost courtesy, cooperation, and full assistance to the Vice President,” he also said.

READ: Duterte appoints Robredo co-chair of gov’t committee vs illegal drugs

Once Robredo accepts the post, she will sit in the committee alongside with Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) chief Aaron Aquino, who serves as chairperson of ICAD.

The committee has 20 government agencies as members, including the PNP, Department of National Defense, Dangerous Drugs Board, and the National Bureau of Investigation.

READ: Duterte creates Inter-Agency Committee on Anti-Illegal Drugs

In a text message to INQUIRER.net, Aquino said she believes that Robredo can “well contribute” to the advocacy against illegal drugs and in rehabilitation efforts for drug suspects. /je