In Bacolod City, a concerted effort is underway to tackle the persistent issue of illegal drug use and supply. The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) has been actively involved in operations that have led to significant drug seizures, including a recent haul of PHP1.7 million worth of shabu from three suspects at a hotel in Barangay Singcang-Airport. Another operation in the same area resulted in the confiscation of PHP204,000 worth of drugs from a single suspect. Throughout 2024, the BCPO managed to recover 13,784.739 grams of shabu, valued at PHP93.736 million on the street.
Despite these efforts, the influx of illegal drugs into Bacolod continues, driven by persistent demand. Col. Joeresty Coronica, the city’s police director, emphasized that the root of the problem lies in the demand for drugs, which has not been adequately addressed. He called for a more sustainable approach to the anti-drug campaign, suggesting the institutionalization of an anti-drug education program.
Coronica also highlighted the importance of starting anti-drug values at home and in schools, and suggested that religious groups could play a significant role in spreading awareness about the dangers of drug use. Lt. Col. Antonio Benitez, head of the BCPO City Drug Enforcement Unit, noted that the drugs entering Bacolod are sourced from Luzon, including Metro Manila, through various transportation methods.
Both officials stressed the need to reduce demand to effectively curb the supply of illegal drugs. Benitez expressed hope that users would cease their activities, pointing out the detrimental effects on individuals and their families. Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez responded to these concerns by proposing a drug awareness campaign targeted at high school students to help reduce drug use among the city’s youth.