THE RECENT announcement by the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) to intensify its campaign against illegal drugs and high-value targets marks a pivotal moment in Western Visayas’ ongoing battle against narcotics. This is a clear signal of an unyielding stance against drug proliferation. However, while the intent is commendable, this escalation raises questions about its long-term implications and effectiveness.
The significant increase in drug bust operations and the substantial rise in confiscated substances in 2023, as reported by PRO-6, indicate a dedicated effort in curbing the drug menace. The impressive figures, including the near doubling of shabu confiscation and the high value of total confiscations, reflect a determined and proactive police force. Yet, these numbers also unveil a disturbing reality: the persistent and, seemingly, growing drug problem in the region.
PRO-6’s strategy, emphasizing the strengthening of barangay intelligence and collaboration with other government forces to monitor local ports, is a multifaceted approach. It suggests an understanding that the drug war is not just a battle of raids and arrests but also an intelligence-driven endeavor. This tactical shift is promising, as it could lead to more precise and impactful operations, disrupting the supply chain more effectively.
However, the intensified campaign must be cautiously navigated. History and global trends suggest that hardline approaches to drug problems can lead to unintended consequences. There’s the potential for an escalation in violence, human rights violations, and the marginalization of small-time users who are often the easiest targets. The focus on “high-value individuals” is a step in the right direction, but it is crucial to ensure that this does not divert attention from the root causes of drug proliferation, such as poverty, lack of education, and limited economic opportunities.
Furthermore, there’s a need to balance enforcement with rehabilitation. The war on drugs is not won with arrests and confiscations alone. It requires a holistic approach that includes support systems for addicts, educational campaigns, and community-based programs to prevent drug abuse. Strengthening these aspects could lead to a more sustainable solution to the drug problem, rather than a cyclical pattern of supply and arrest.
Only by striking this delicate balance can the drug war in Western Visayas be truly effective and transformative.
