Lacson on PDEA hotlines: Citizens have ‘active role’ in drug fight

By: Maila Ager - 8 years ago

Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson. VINCENT CABREZA/INQUIRER NORTHERN LUZON FILE PHOTO

Senator-elect Panfilo Lacson commended on Monday the hotlines put up by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), saying it was a good start in the anti-drug efforts of the incoming administration.

Lacson said these hotlines should encourage active participation by the citizenry in fighting the drug menace, which he said needs an integrated approach.

“Definitely, this will give ordinary citizens a more active role in bringing down the supply of drugs by giving tips against dealers. But the hotlines should also lead to help for those addicted to drugs,” he said in a statement.

During his stint as head of the Philippine National Police from 199 to 2001, Lacson said he also implemented an integrated approach against the illegal drug trade by constricting its supply and reducing demand.

President-elect Rodrigo Duterte’s campaign spokesman, Peter Laviña, earlier announced that incoming PDEA chief Isidro Lapeña has issued the following hotlines for the incoming administration’s anti-drug efforts:

Text: 09998887332, 09255737332, 09279150616

Calls: 09393960627

Landlines: (02) 9200735, (02) 9200736

Aside from providing hotlines, Lacson is pushing for other measures to fight the drug trade, including close monitoring of drug-related operations inside the New Bilibid Prison and other detention facilities where drug lords are being detained.

He said such facilities should maximize the use of systems such as closed-circuit television (CCTV) and may complement continuing inspections under “Oplan Galugad.”

Lacson earlier lamented that many drug lords continue to ply their trade and enjoy perks even while behind bars. RAM