More gov’t workers arrested for illegal drugs in 2017 – PDEA

More government employees were arrested in anti-drug operations in 2017 compared to previous years, according to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

PDEA Director General Aaron Aquino said 301 government workers, composed of 129 elected officials, 27 uniformed personnel and 145 government employees, were apprehended in 2017.

“More and more unscrupulous government workers are involved in the country’s illegal drug trade as shown in the rising number of arrested state workers each succeeding year,” Aquino said in a statement on Tuesday.

Data provided by the PDEA showed a gradual increase of government workers apprehended for illegal drugs from 2011 to 2017.

The PDEA said about 1,155 government workers were collared for illegal drugs during these years: 301 in 2017, 231 in 2016, 201 in 2015, 190 in 2014, 138 in 2013, 65 in 2012 and 29 in 2011.

“The significant increase in the arrest of government workers means that authorities are hot on their trails,” Aquino said.

If courts would find them guilty, Aquino said the maximum penalty of Republic Act 9165, or the “Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002,” would be imposed against them, in addition to absolute perpetual disqualification from any public office.

“We must restore trust and confidence of the people in the capacities of their government. In this way, we can achieve real success in the national anti-drug campaign,” the PDEA chief said. /je