Dangerous drugs valued at P134,009,108.70 were destroyed today (July 4, 2017) by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).
Destroyed through thermal decomposition were 44,669.65 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride, or shabu, and 10.58 grams of marijuana. Also destroyed were 28,410 grams of activated carbon.
Thermal decomposition is the process by which various compounds are broken down into single units by the application of heat wherein reconstruction of the substances is impossible.
PDEA Director General Isidro S. Lapeña said that majority of the illegal drugs destroyed were seized during the operation conducted by PDEA and PNP through the implementation of search warrant that led to the arrest of four drug personalities in Banawe Street, Barangay Manresa, Quezon City on November 16, 2016. These were turned over to the court and are now no longer needed as evidence in court.
The destruction was held at the Clean Leaf International Corporation (CLIC), Barangay Maysilo, Malabon City.
Key officials of PDEA and other law enforcement agencies, representatives from the Department of Justice, the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB), the Public Attorney’s Office, Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) and media witnessed the destruction.
The destruction is in compliance with the requirements of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, and Dangerous Drugs Board Regulation No.1 series of 2002.
“The destruction of seized illegal drugs is in accordance with the provisions of the law and will eliminate any misconception that these items are being recycled and peddled back into the streets,” Lapeña said. (Photo by: Robert Gines)
