22/07/2026
PNP REINFORCES DRIVE AGAINST ILLEGAL DRUGS, CALLS FOR UNITED ACTION TO PROTECT THE YOUTH
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has reinforced its call for stronger community cooperation in protecting children and young people from the dangers of illegal drugs following a recent incident at a public high school in Bacolod City on Monday, July 20, where police responded after school authorities sought assistance in the recovery of approximately 30 grams of a substance suspected to be shabu, with an estimated Standard Drug Price of β±204,000.00.
The responding police officers immediately secured the recovered items for proper documentation and submission to the appropriate forensic laboratory for examination.
Consistent with existing laws and child protection policies, the matter was immediately referred to the appropriate social welfare authorities for the necessary assessment and intervention, while police continue to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident through a fair, impartial, and child-sensitive investigation.
The PNP emphasized that situations involving children require not only the proper application of the law but also timely guidance, intervention, and community support. Protecting the youth from the influence of illegal drugs is a shared responsibility that calls for sustained cooperation among families, schools, local government units, social welfare agencies, community organizations, and law enforcement. Through continued awareness, early intervention, and open communication, communities can help create a safer environment where children are protected and guided away from harmful influences.
The police response is in line with the PNP Focused Agenda, particularly under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which promotes proactive policing, stronger collaboration with stakeholders, and responsive public safety initiatives. These efforts likewise support the peace and order priorities of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., emphasized that protecting children from the dangers of illegal drugs requires the collective effort of the entire community.
"Kapag kabataan ang sangkot sa isang sitwasyon tulad nito, ang unang dapat nating isipin ay kung paano natin sila mapoprotektahan at matutulungan. Hindi ito responsibilidad ng iisang sektor lamang. Kailangan nating magtulunganβang pamahalaan, mga paaralan, mga pamilya, at ang buong komunidadβupang mailayo ang ating mga kabataan sa panganib ng ilegal na droga."
He also urged the public to remain vigilant and actively support prevention efforts.
"Hindi lamang tungkulin ng pulisya ang pagprotekta sa ating mga kabataan. Malaki ang maitutulong ng maagap na pagbabahagi ng impormasyon, pakikilahok sa drug awareness programs, at patuloy na pagtutulungan ng komunidad upang maiwasan ang pagkalantad ng ating mga anak sa ilegal na droga. Ang bawat maliit na hakbang ng bawat isa ay maaaring maging malaking ambag sa kinabukasan ng ating kabataan."
The PNP encourages the public to support drug awareness and prevention efforts and help create safe environments where children and young people can seek guidance and support. Through sustained community cooperation and timely intervention, communities can better protect the youth from the dangers of illegal drugs while ensuring that those who need help receive appropriate assistance.
Guided by this shared responsibility, the PNP remains committed to advancing Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.
(PNP-PIO)