Sotto backs Duterte’s tougher war on drugs

MANILA, Philippines – Senate President Vicente Sotto III said he is in favor of a “stronger approach” to the government’s war on drugs.

Sotto issued the statement after President Rodrigo Duterte said his anti-illegal drug campaign would be “harsher in the days to come.”

READ: Duterte: Drug war will be ‘harsher in the days to come’

“I’m in favor of a stronger approach but all within legal limitations,” Sotto said in a statement.

The Senate President, however, said he hopes prevention and rehabilitation would be more emphasized.

“This time I hope there will be more emphasis on prevention and rehabilitation,” Sotto said.

“As for drug pushers, throw them everything including the kitchen sink,” he added.

In his speech in  Malacañang on Wednesday, Duterte reiterated his vow to not allow anyone to destroy the country, especially the youth, through illegal drugs.

Asked if the anti-drug campaign would be bloodier, Duterte replied: “I think so.”  / gsg