$587M worth of drugs seized in first 2 years of Marcos admin — Abalos

Some US$587 million worth of illegal drugs have been seized during the Marcos administration's first two years, according to Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos.

Abalos made the remark during the opening of the 33rd Session of the United Nations Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ33) in Vienna, Austria on May 13.

Abalos said the figure—about P33.9 billion based on Tuesday's exchange rate—was a 700% increase from previous years, saying that the improvement was achieved "with minimal loss of life."

"It has likewise acknowledged the importance of demand reduction by implementing the value of life, avoid drugs [through the] BIDA (Buhay Ingatan, Droga'y Ayawan) Project," Abalos said.

He said that because of the project, the Philippines has seen a significant decrease when it comes to drug-related cases as the government upholds the importance of holistic crime prevention approaches rooted in community engagement and wellness.

The Marcos administration has committed to enhancing the criminal justice system and crime prevention strategies in the Philippines, Abalos said, to foster peace, harmony and a rules-based order through international cooperation.

PH fight vs terror

Meanwhile, Abalos said the Philippine government also remains resolute in the fight against terrorism and preventing and countering violent extremism.

Abalos said the Philippines is calling for global cooperation when it comes to dealing with terrorism.

"We recognize the urgent need for a robust international response to effectively address the challenge," Abalos said.

"We believe that comprehensive and enhanced collaborative approaches and efforts are needed to disrupt terrorist financial networks, recruitment, and movement," he added. — VDV, GMA Integrated News