In a significant move to tackle the nation’s drug issues, the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) have initiated a thorough review of Republic Act 9165, known as the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. This review, which kicked off on February 11, 2025, is in response to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call for a holistic strategy that encompasses both enforcement and rehabilitation efforts.
The DOJ, led by Undersecretary Jesse Hermogenes Andres, and the DDB, represented by Secretary Oscar Valenzuela, are spearheading this initiative. The review aims to integrate a ‘whole-of-government approach’ that not only focuses on law enforcement but also emphasizes social services, community-based rehabilitation, education, and reintegration programs for those affected by drugs.
This collaborative effort includes participation from non-government organizations, civil society groups, the University of the Philippines’ Institute of Human Rights, and international bodies like the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The process is designed to be highly consultative, ensuring that the insights and recommendations from the 1st Drug Policy and Law Reform Summit in July 2024 are taken into account.
Undersecretary Andres emphasized the importance of incorporating the views of subject matter experts, including those from human rights and health sectors. The ultimate goal of this review is to produce a revised bill that is evidence-based, supported by comprehensive studies, data, and statistics, and aligned with international standards and best practices.