Hazard pay for PDEA agents pushed

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has proposed the granting of hazard pay to its operatives exposed to danger and health risks during anti-illegal drug operations.

PDEA director general Arturo Cacdac Jr. said they have asked the President to issue an Executive Order giving hazard pay to 1,285 PDEA personnel, which would require an annual allocation of P180,846,596.

“The hazard pay will boost the morale and increase productivity of PDEA agents and personnel,” Cacdac said.

Recommended to be given hazard pay are PDEA directors, intelligence officers, investigation agents, security officers, special investigators involved in operations and canine handlers participating in anti-drug operations; chemists, laboratory technicians and aides performing laboratory or field duties; prison guards; dangerous drugs regulation officers conducting field inspections, and legal officers.

“Based on our records of casualties and wounded personnel in the line of duty, it is proper to give PDEA personnel hazard pay,” Cacdac said.