The recent surge in illicit drug use has sparked a heated debate over the government’s approach to combating this issue. Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio questioned the focus on retail operations, suggesting that stopping the supply of contraband could significantly reduce demand.
However, Solicitor General Calida countered that policing an archipelagic state like the Philippines is inherently challenging due to its geography. He argued that drug lords often operate outside of Philippine jurisdiction and that bulk importation poses a significant challenge for authorities.
The recent seizure of a P6.4-billion drug shipment from China highlighted the complexity of this issue. The incident sparked concerns about corruption and inefficiency in the customs department, with some reports suggesting that up to 70% of illicit drugs enter the country through bulk shipments.
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