DESPITE the political noise surrounding drug allegations against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Misamis Oriental insists it remains focused on its mandate.
“Our morale is still firm,” said Expedito P. Cardona, Jr., PDEA-10 Provincial Officer for Misamis Oriental, during a press conference hosted by the Cagayan de Oro Press Club on Wednesday, Dec. 9.
The agency addressed the tension following a Nov. 17 statement by Senator Imee Marcos. Speaking before a large prayer rally, the senator claimed she was aware that her brother, the President, had used illicit drugs. While the President denied the claim, the allegation sparked significant controversy.
Cardona acknowledged the irony of the situation, noting that PDEA operates under the Office of the President. He admitted the issue carries a political hue and confessed to feeling a little pressure when addressing the media.
However, he emphasized that the provincial office remains apolitical.
“We are doing our job with integrity regardless of issues,” Cardona said.He clarified that while the provincial office conducts surveillance and validates illegal drug reports locally, matters concerning Malacañang Palace fall under the jurisdiction of the national headquarters.
Despite the high-profile nature of the allegations, Cardona is confident that the validation of reports remains unbiased.
“Regardless of personality, position, or rank, we will perform our mandate,” Cardona said, urging the community to continue assisting the agency in reporting illegal activities.
As evidence of their continued operations, Cardona highlighted the provincial agency’s biggest achievement to date: a joint operation with the Police Northern Mindanao Drug Enforcement Unit that resulted in the seizure of 17 kilograms of methamphetamine, or shabu, with a street value of P22 million.
City Councilor Roger G. Abaday has commended the agency for the record-breaking seizure, urging that the campaign against illegal drugs in the city must be sustained.
