Marcos to Formalize Anti-Drug Stance with Executive Order This Year

MANILA, Philippines – An executive order formalizing the Marcos administration’s anti-drug strategy will be issued later this year as the government moves to expand its approach to curbing narcotics use and trade, Marikina Rep. Marcelino “Marcy” Teodoro said Wednesday. Teodoro said the Presidential Management Staff is reviewing the 2018 Philippine Anti-Illegal Drugs Strategy (PADS), with the review being part of the preparations for the EO’s issuance. The move is seen as an indication of a different approach compared to the often controversial and stringent war on drugs waged under the previous administration of Rodrigo Duterte. The Duterte administration’s campaign drew international criticism for resulting in thousands of deaths. The Marcos administration has emphasized a more comprehensive approach to addressing the drug problem, which Teodoro explained would include treatment, rehabilitation, and the disruption of drug supply and distribution networks. Information Source: Inquirer NewsInfo