Associate Editor
Dated January 29, 2009, after the President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo announces publicly that she will be the next anti-drug czar. Secretary Ronaldo Puno of the DILG immediately sent the MC 2k9-09 to all concern. However, said memorandum in its coverage exempted the ARMM region.
Further, MC 2k9-09 cited the responsibilities of all local government officials down to the barangays;
“As required under Section 51 to 53 of RA 9165, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002 as amended, Local Chief Executive and Sanggunian members must ensure the mandatory inclusion in the Local Annual Budget of a substantial appropriation that can adequately assist in or enhance the enforcement of RA 9165 giving priority to preventive or educational programs and the rehabilitation or treatment of drug dependents…
And ensure that the Anti Drug Abuse Councils at all levels perform their functions and responsibilities as embodied in relevant department issuances.”
The said MC 2k9-09 also cited the sanction against anyone who will not follow the memorandum circular especially in the mandatory inclusion to its annual budget, all officials concern be subjected to a possible administrative charges of dereliction of duty.
Failing in any action against the implementation of the memorandum in appropriate enforcement of RA 9165, said officials will be charge for gross negligence, despite knowledge of the PDEA and PNP adverse reports, are considered prima facie evidence for the administrative charges.
In Zamboanga Del Sur, Governor Aurora Enerio Cerilles lately announce that she is now in war against the proliferation of illegal drugs and other illegal activities in the province. And immediately call on the police and other government agencies to help and support this campaign for the betterment of the province and to ensure the future of the youth a drug free citizen.
“Enough is enough, this should be stop at all cost” she said.
Meanwhile, Provincial Director P/SSupt Ramon Ochotorena of the ZDS-PNP Provincial Command in an interview said;
“This will sharpen the teeth of our campaign against illegal drug that has been the menace of this society for a long time.”