Makati bars warned about illegal drugs

Makati Vice-Mayor Ernesto Mercado has issued a warning to the owners and administrators of bars and restaurants in the city to put an end to the trade of illegal drugs in their establishments.

In a meeting with the Makati Clubs and Restaurants Association (MACREA) and the Makati Karaoke and Music Lounge Association (MAKAMUSIKA), Mercado stressed that the trade of illegal drugs, particularly "Ecstacy" would not be tolerated by the city government.

Mercado admitted that the sale of Ecstasy has become rampant in the city’s clubs and bars where a significant number of the upscale clientele hang out.

He pointed out that the suppliers of the drug are from outside the city but frequent the area because of the clients.

Makati City has undertaken an intensified anti-illegal drug campaign with the creation of the Makati Anti-Drug Abuse Council (MADAC).

The vice-mayor heads the MADAC which is composed of civilian agents who assist the Drug Enforcement Unit of the local police in operations against drug dealers and users.

Mercado has come up with a self-imposed target of one year to eliminate the illegal drug trade in the city.

With the help of the MADAC, the Makati Police DEU apprehended 80 individuals involved in illegal drugs last month.– Marvin Sy