The Philippine government remains resolute in its fight against illegal drugs, insurgency, and various forms of criminality, according to an official statement from Malacañang. The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) recently released its year-end report, highlighting the government’s multi-sectoral engagements in promoting and ensuring the safety of communities.
In its report, the DILG emphasized the government’s long-term vision of a “Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Buhay for every Filipino.” This vision serves as the guiding principle for various efforts initiated by the government to address the ever-evolving challenges faced by the nation and contribute to nation-building. These initiatives are aligned with the President’s eight-point socioeconomic agenda, as outlined in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 and the Administration’s ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ brand of governance.
One of the key programs spearheaded by the DILG is the ‘Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Iwasan (BIDA)’ campaign, which emphasizes the shared responsibility of the government and the private sector in eradicating illegal drugs. The DILG has partnered with companies to encourage the implementation of stricter measures and the conduct of random drug testing. Additionally, collaborations with major sports leagues and celebrities have been formed to raise awareness through public service announcements on combating drug abuse.
The efforts of the Philippine National Police (PNP) have also yielded positive results in terms of crime prevention and resolution. According to the DILG, there has been a 0.14 percent decrease in overall crime incidences and a 1.38 percent increase in Crime Solution Efficiency from January to December this year compared to the same period in 2022. The volume of both index and non-index crimes has decreased during this period as well, with improvements noted in seven of the eight focus index crimes. The index and non-index crime volumes have decreased by 8.44 percent and 7.32 percent, respectively.
Furthermore, the DILG continues to support the peace-building efforts of local government units in their campaign to end the local communist armed conflict. As of November 2023, 1,119 former rebels have been granted financial assistance amounting to P91.4 million under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program. The DILG remains committed to fighting violent extremism through the ‘Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE) Program.’ It has conducted PCVE and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) awareness and readiness training to address security concerns presented by terrorism and the use of weapons of mass destruction.
The government’s relentless efforts in combating illegal drugs, insurgency, and criminality reflect its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens. Through multi-sectoral engagements, partnerships with the private sector, and collaborations with sports leagues and celebrities, the government aims to eradicate drug abuse and promote a safer and more secure environment. The improvements in crime-related statistics, along with the support extended to former rebels and the initiatives to counter violent extremism, further demonstrate the government’s dedication to building a peaceful and prosperous nation.
As the government continues to evolve its strategies and programs, it remains steadfast in its pursuit of a “Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Buhay for every Filipino.” By aligning its actions with the President’s socioeconomic agenda and the Philippine Development Plan, the government aims to create a better future for all Filipinos, free from the scourge of illegal drugs, insurgency, and criminality.
Source: The Manila Times
