Bañas to assess drug situation in Central Visayas

CEBU, Philippines - Police Regional Office-7 director Prudencio “Tom” Bañas will assess the drug situation in Central Visayas after his 100 days in office.

Since he assumed office on June 11, a series of operations had been conducted which resulted to the arrest of several personalities and the confiscation of huge amount of illegal drugs.

However, Bañas said he could not ascertain yet the extent of drug reduction following the successful operations.

“As of now, hindi ko rin masabi talaga how big the problem is but still it remains to be a problem. That’s why continuous po ang ating effort doon sa ating trabaho,” said Bañas at the 888 News Forum at Marco Polo Plaza yesterday.

Bañas said he still requires station and unit commanders to follow up their personnel, set targets and run after these targets.

“I have to convene my commanders and our intelligence community and assess after 100 days in office ng ating campaign against illegal drugs,” he said.

The PRO-7 director thanked his policemen and the community for helping in their accomplishments as they continue to implement their programs.

He said the supply reduction program is just one of the comprehensive strategies of the Philippine National Police in the fight against illegal drugs together with the Regional Peace and Order Council.

Part of the program is a visit to schools and workplaces to talk about the effects of illegal drugs on people, especially on the youth.

The PNP national headquarters had recently recognized PRO-7 as the number one unit in the country in terms of going against illegal drugs and number two in terms of accounting loose firearms.

Bañas earlier vowed to intensify the fight against drug trade. — (FREEMAN)