More training, cooperation needed in fight vs drugs

CEBU, Philippines - Only one of 36 cases involving sale of illegal drugs filed by the Cebu City police last month received a conviction ruling. 

This was disclosed by the Cebu City Prosecutor's Office during the meeting of the Police Coordinating Council (PCAC) meeting yesterday.

The reasons – defective presentation of evidence, reassignment of policemen who were witnesses to the crime, information forgotten, among others.

Vice Mayor Edgar Labella, the chairman of PCAC, wasn't pleased.

"For me, this is not a good result," he said, considering that police agencies have been aggressive in the fight against illegal drugs.

Labella, himself a lawyer, said one factor that contributes to information being forgotten is the length of time it takes before a case is even heard by the court.

"There is no coordination of the police and the prosecution, they only meet during the hearing day itself and there should have been a preparation stage for that," Labella added.

To address this, Labella said it is important for those involved in prosecuting – prosecutors and police officers particularly – to undergo training.

He said that the fight against illegal drugs is not just a fight of the police officers, but all pillars of justice.

The Cebu City Police Office has confiscated at least P33.5 million worth of illegal drugs from 555 operations last year. Of the 778 individuals arrested, 137 were pushers. — (FREEMAN)