The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has reported a significant 32% rise in the value of seized illegal drugs in 2024 compared to the previous year.
From January 1 to December 31, 2024, authorities confiscated a total of ₱21.43 billion worth of illegal drugs, controlled precursors, and essential chemicals (CPECs), according to PDEA’s statement. This figure surpasses the ₱16.24 billion in seizures recorded in 2023.
Breakdown of Seizures
- ₱5.52 billion worth of drugs were confiscated in operations conducted by PDEA in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies.
- Joint efforts between PDEA and the Philippine National Police (PNP) accounted for ₱2.75 billion.
- Operations led solely by the PNP resulted in the seizure of ₱13.10 billion worth of illegal drugs.
- The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), working with PDEA and the PNP, seized drugs valued at ₱60 million.
Arrests and Operations
Authorities arrested 51,264 drug personalities in 38,545 anti-drug operations during 2024.
- 1,455 operations spearheaded by PDEA, with assistance from other agencies, led to the arrest of 2,881 individuals.
- Joint PDEA-PNP operations, totaling 1,857, resulted in 1,890 arrests.
- The PNP alone conducted 5,201 operations, apprehending 46,450 suspects.
- The NBI, in collaboration with other agencies, conducted 32 operations and arrested 43 suspects.
Government’s Efforts
PDEA emphasized that these accomplishments reflect the government’s commitment to targeting high-level drug traffickers and dismantling organized criminal networks. Improved coordination between agencies has been a key factor in reducing the prevalence of illegal drugs.
“The enhanced inter-agency coordination and collaboration among concerned law enforcement agencies also remains a key factor in reducing illegal drugs in the streets,” the agency stated