The General Profile of Drug Abusers

The data may help one in understanding drug abusers in the Philippines.

Actual Outward Physical Signs/ Symptoms of Drug Abusers:

The actual profile of an abuser of narcotic drugs may show some of the following manifestations.
1. Admission of the addict himself.
2. Consistently wear long-sleeved shirt or blouses, dark eye-classes unlikely times to hide dilated or
constricted pupils of eyes.
3. Blood spots around elbow areas of blouses shirt or pajamas.
4. Walk, talk and act as if under alcoholic influence.
5. Prolonged period of sleep or lethargy, abnormal sleepless, nervous, jumpy and talkative.
6. School works deteriorates (grades and home works)
7. Work habits, become slip-shod, too many emotional explosions, loss body weight., abnormal bowel
habits, blood-shot eyes.
8. Sloppy in dress and careless in bodily hygiene, inordinate desire for consumption of sweets.
Unusual odor in the house or room (marijuana, hash, or incense)
9. Develop defiant or contemptuous attitudes towards authority (Parents, Teachers, Police, Etc.)
constant demand for ever-increasing amount of money.
10. Takes money from everyone and fails to repay, steel and sells all possible items of value from
home or elsewhere when opportunity comes.
11. Receives or makes numerous phone calls to people who are unknown in the house. Associates
only with people who have the reputation for playing with using drugs.
12. Persistently lies when asked to explain in expected knock on the door.
13. Unrealistic attitudes, having difficult of concentration.

The Personality Profile of a Filipino Drug Abuser

1. They are of average or above average intelligence

2. They are witty and manipulative
3. They have negative attitude, they demonstrate hostile feelings to the world or to anybody who
does not want to conform to what they want.
4. They are emotionally immature, selfish and demanding.
5. They want immediate gratification of needs and desires.
6. They have low frustration tolerance.
7. Their interest and aptitude are on dramatics, persuasive and musical field in that order.
2. They are depressed and excessively dependent.
3. They are rebellious and have impulsive behavior.
4. They are pleasure seeker and pathologically liars
5. They like to join anti social groups/ delinquent groups.
6. They have difficulty in solving problems.
ASSESSMENT NO. 1 SELF-EVALUATION
1. Why does drug abuser conceal his habit?
2. Does the signs and symptoms of drug abuse, especially in the beginning stages can be
identical to those produced by conditions having nothing whatsoever to do with drugs?
Explain.
THE GLOBAL DRUG SITUATION
Drug abuse has become not only a national issue or a problem of just a few countries but it is a clear
and present global danger.
Today, highly entrenched, well-organized drug syndicates are behind this menace. They employ the
most advanced and most sophisticated technology coupled with unlimited financial resources at their
command and disposal. Police agencies around the world, pooling their resources together are more
often than not, the losers in a game of hide-and-seek with the international drug syndicates (Sotto,
1994).
A. The 1st Important Drug Traffic Route
Middle East – discovery, plantation, cultivation, harvest
Turkey - preparation for distribution
Europe - manufacture, synthesis, refine
U.S. – Marketing
B. The 2nd Major Drug Traffic Route

C. World’s Drug Scene

1. Southeast Asia – the “Golden Triangle” approximately produced 60% of opium in the world, 90%
percent of opium in the eastern part of Asia. It is also the officially acknowledged source of Southeast
Asian Heroin.
2. Southwest Asia – the “Golden Crescent” is the major supplier of opium poppy, MJ and Heroin
products in the western part of Asia. It produces at least 85% to 90% of all illicit heroin channeled in
the drug underworld market.
3. Middle East – the Becka Valley of Lebanon is the biggest producer of cannabis in the Middle East.
Lebanon is also considered as the transit country for cocaine from South America to European
markets.
4. Spain – major transshipment point for international drug traffickers in Europe – known as “the
paradise of drug users in Europe”.
5. South America – Columbia, Peru, Uruguay, and Panama are the sources of all cocaine supply in
the world.
6. Morocco – the number one producer of cannabis in the world. (2003 to 2006)
7. Philippines – the major transshipment point for the worldwide distribution of illegal drugs such as
shabu and cocaine from Taiwan and South America. The second world’s supplier of MJ and the drug
paradise of drug abusers in Asia.
8. India – center of the world’s drug map, leading to rapid addiction among its people.
9. Indonesia – Northern Sumatra has traditionally been the main cannabis growing area in Indonesia.
Bali Indonesia is an important transit point for drugs en route to Australia and New Zealand.
10. Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand – the most favorable sites of drug distribution from the
“Golden Triangle” and other parts of Asia.
11. China – the transit route for heroin from “Golden Triangle” to H.K.
12. Hong Kong – the world’s transshipment point of all forms of heroin.
13. Japan – the major consumer of cocaine and shabu from U. S. and Europe.
D. Organized Crime Groups behind the Global Drug Scene
Columbian Medellin Cartel
Founded during the 1980’s by Colombian drug lords in the name of Pablo Escobar Gaviria and drug
bosses Jose Gonzalo Rodriguez Gacha and the top aid cocaine barons Juan David and the Ochoa
Brothers.
The Medellin Cartel is reputedly responsible for organizing world’s drug trafficking network. The
Columbian government succeeded in containing the Medellin Cartel, which resulted in the death,
surrender, and arrest of the people behind the organization. This further resulted to the disbandment
of the Cartel led to its downfall.
Cali Cartel
The downfall of the Columbian Medellin Cartel is the rise of the Cali Cartel - the newly emerged
cocaine monopoly. Gilberto Rodriquez Orajuela –Don Chepe - “the chess player” heads the
syndicated organization. Under him, the Cali cartel was considered the most powerful criminal
organization in the world.
The cartel produces over 90% of cocaine in the world. Due to this, it was called the best and the
brightest of the modern underworld. “ They are professionals of the highest order, intelligent,
efficient, imaginative, and nearly impenetrable” – US - Drug Enforcement Agency.
The Chinese Triad
The downfall of the Columbian Medellin Cartel is the rise of the Cali Cartel - the newly emerged
cocaine monopoly. Gilberto Rodriquez Orajuela –Don Chepe - “the chess player” heads the
syndicated organization. Under him, the Cali cartel was considered the most powerful criminal
organization in the world.
The cartel produces over 90% of cocaine in the world. Due to this, it was called the best and the
brightest of the modern underworld. “ They are professionals of the highest order, intelligent,
efficient, imaginative, and nearly impenetrable” – US - Drug Enforcement Agency.
The Chinese Triad
The Chinese Triad is also called the Chinese Mafia – the oldest and biggest criminal organization in
the world. It is believed to be the controller of the “Golden Triangle”.
Drug Syndicates in the Philippines
The Binondo-based Chinese syndicate has been identified as the nucleus of the Triad Society, the
Bamboo gang based in Taiwan and the 14K based in Hong Kong. The Bamboo Gang is the influence
of the Green Gang of the Chinese Triad while the 14K is the newest among the triads families
established only in 1947.
The most common “modus operandi” by the syndicates – posing as fishermen along Philippine seas,
particularly, the northern provinces of Luzon such as La Union, Ilocos, and Pangasinan where they
drop their loads of shabu to shoreline based members. The syndicates are famously involved in
marijuana cultivation and other drug smuggling including drug manufacture.
THE DANGEROUS DRUGS
A. According to Effects
1. Depressants – those that depress the CNS
2. Stimulants – those that stimulate the CNS
3. Hallucinogens – those that distort perception, mind; alter moods.
B. According to Medical Pharmacology
1. Depressants
2. Narcotics
3. Tranquilizers
4. Stimulants
5. Hallucinogens
6. Solvents/Inhalants
The Depressants (Downers)
These are group of drugs, which suppress vital body functions especially those of the brain or central
nervous system with the resulting impairment of judgment, hearing, speech and muscular
coordination. They dull the minds, slow down body reactions to such an extent that accidental deaths
and/or suicides usually happen. They include the narcotics, barbiturates, tranquilizers, alcohol and
other volatile solvents. These drugs, when taken in, generally decrease both the mental and the
physical activities of the body. They cause depression, relieve pain and induce sedation or sleep and
suppress cough.
1. Narcotics - are drugs, which relieve pain and produce profound sleep or stupor. Medically, they
are potent painkillers, cough depressants and as an active component of anti-diarrheal preparations.
Opium and it derivatives like morphine, codeine and heroin, as well as the synthetic opiates,
meperidine and methadone, are classified as narcotics.
2. Opium – derived from a poppy plant – Papaver somniferum popularly known as “gum”, “gamot”,
“kalamay” or “panocha”.
3. Morphine - most commonly used and best used opiate. Effective as a painkiller six times potent
than opium, with a high dependence – producing potential. Morphine exerts action characterized by
analgesia, drowsiness, mood changes, and mental clouding.
4. Heroin – is three to five times more powerful than morphine from which it is derived and the
most addicting opium derivative. With continued use, addiction occurs within 14 days. It may be
sniffed on swallowed but is usually injected in the veins.
5. Codeine – a derivative of morphine, commonly available in cough preparations. These cough
medicines have been widely abused by the young whenever hard narcotics are difficult to obtain.
Withdrawal symptoms are less severe than other drugs.
6. Paregoric – a tincture of opium in combination with camphor. Commonly used as a household
remedy for diarrhea and abdominal pain.
7. Demerol and Methadone – common synthetic drugs with morphine – like effects. Demerol is
widely used as a painkiller in childbirth while methadone is the drug of choice in the withdrawal
treatment of heroin dependents since it relieves the physical craving for heroin.
8. Barbiturates – are drugs used for inducing sleep in persons plagued with anxiety, mental stress,
and insomnia. They are also of value in the treatment of epilepsy and hypertension. They are
available in capsules, pills or tablets, and taken orally or injected.
9. Seconal – commonly used among hospitality girls. Sudden withdrawal from these drugs is even
more dangerous than opiate withdrawal. The dependent develops generalized convulsions and
delirium, which are frequently associated with heart and respiratory failure.
10. Tranquilizers – are drugs that calm and relax and diminish anxiety. They are used in the
treatment of nervous states and some mental disorders without producing sleep.
11. Volatile Solvents – gaseous substances popularly known to abusers as “gas”, “teardrops”.
Examples are plastic glues, hair spray, finger nail polish, lighter fluid, rugby, paint, thinner, acetone,
turpentine gasoline, kerosene, varnishes and other aerosol products. They are inhaled by the use
plastic bags, handkerchief or rags soaked in these chemicals.
12. Alcohol – the king of all drugs with potential for abuse. Most widely used, socially accepted and
most extensively legalized drug throughout the world. In the field of medicine, it is “valuable” as
disinfectant, as an external remedy for reducing high fever among children, and as preservative and
solvent for pharmaceutical preparations like elixirs, spirits and tincture.
The Stimulants (Uppers)
They produce effects opposite to that of depressants. Instead of bringing about relaxation and sleep,
they produce increased mental alertness, wakefulness, reduce hunger, and provide a feeling of well
being. Their medical users include narcolepsy – a condition characterized by an overwhelming desire
to sleep. Abrupt withdrawal of the drug from the heavy abuser can result in a deep and suicidal
depression.
1. Amphetamines – used medically for weight reducing in obesity, relief of mild depression and
treatment
2. Cocaine – taken orally, injected or sniffed as to achieve euphoria or an intense feeling of
“highness”.
3. Caffeine – it is present in coffee, tea, chocolate, cola drinks, and some wake-up pills.
4. Shabu/ “poor man’s cocaine” – chemically known as methamphetamine. It is a central nervous
system stimulant and sometimes called “upper” or “speed”. It is white, colorless crystal or crystalline
powder with a bitter numbing taste. It can be taken orally, inhaled (snorted), sniffed (chasing the
dragon) or injected.
5. Nicotine – an active component in tobacco, which acts as a powerful stimulant of the central
nervous system. A drop of pure nicotine can easily kill a person.
The Hallucinogens (Psychedelic)
Consists of a variety of mind-altering drugs, which distort reality, thinking and perceptions of time,
sound, space and sensation. The user experiences hallucination (false perception), which at times
can be strange. His “trips” may be exhilarating or terrifying good or bad. They may dislocate his
consciousness and change his mood, thinking and concept of self.
1. Marijuana – It is the most commonly abused hallucinogen in the Philippines because it can be
grown extensively in the country. Many users choose to smoke marijuana for relaxation in the same
way people drink beer or cocktail at the end of the day. The effects of marijuana include a feeling of
grandeur. It can also produce the opposite effect, a dreamy sensation of time seeming to stretch out.
2. Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD) – This drug is the most powerful of the psychedelics
obtained from ergot, a fungus that attacks rye kernels. LSD is 1, 000 times more powerful than
marijuana as supply, large enough for a trip can be taken from the glue on the flab of an envelope,
from the paste of a postage stamp, or from the hidden areas inside one’s clothes. LSD causes
perceptual changes so that the user sees colors, shapes, or objects more intensely than normal and
may have hallucinations of things that are not real. To him real objects seem to change, buildings
seem to be crackling open, and walls pulsating. He experiences frequent bizarre hallucinations, loss
spatial perceptions, personality diffusion and changes in values. Usually, users perceive distortion of
time, colors, sounds and depth. They experience “scent” music and sounds in “colors”.
3. Peyote – Peyote is derived from the surface part of a small gray brown cactus. Peyote emits a
nauseating odor and its user suffers from nausea. This drug causes no physical dependence and,
therefore, no withdrawal symptoms, although in some cases psychological dependence has been
noted.
4. Mescaline – It is the alkaloid hallucinogen extracted from the peyote cactus and can also be
synthesized in the laboratory. It produces less nausea than peyote and shows effects resembling
those of LSD although milder in nature. One to two hours after the drug is taken in a liquid or
powder form, delusions begin to occur. Optical hallucinations follow one upon another in rapid
succession. These are accompanied by imperfect coordination and perception with a sensation of
impeded motion, and a marked sense that time is still standing. Mescaline does not cause physical
dependence.
5. STP – It is a take-off on the motor oil additive. It is a chemical derivative of mescaline claimed to
produce more violent and longer effects than mescaline dose. Its effects are similar to the nerve gas
used in chemical warfare. It is less potent than LSD although its effects are similar to those of
psychedelics.
6. Psilocybin – This hallucinogenic alkaloid from small Mexican mushrooms are used by Mexican
Indians today. These mushrooms induced nausea, muscular relaxation, mood changes with visions of
bright colors and shapes, and other hallucinations. These effects may last for four to five hours and
later may be followed by depressions, laziness, and complete loss of time and space perceptions.
7. Morning Glory Seeds – The black and brown seeds of the wild tropical morning glory that are
used to produce hallucinations. The seeds are ground into flour, soaked in cold water, then strained
though a cloth and drunk. They are sold under the names of “heavenly blues”, “flying dancers’, and
“pearly gates”. The active ingredient in the seed is similar to LSD although less potent. The reactions
are likened to those resulting from LSD. Prolonged psychosis is also one of its effects.
COMMONLY ABUSED DRUGS
Drugs that are commonly abused depending on their pharmacological effects may be classified into:
1. Sedatives – drugs which reduce anxiety and excitement such as barbiturates, non-barbiturates,
tranquilizers and alcohol.
2. Stimulants – drugs which increase alertness and activity such as amphetamines, cocaine and
caffeine.
3. Hallucinogens/Psychedelics – drugs which affect sensation, thinking, self-awareness and
emotion. Changes in time and space perception, delusions (false beliefs) and hallucinations) may be
mild or overwhelming, dispensing on dose and quality of the drug. This includes LSD, mescaline and
marijuana.
4. Narcotics – drugs that relieve pain and often induce sleep. The opiates, which are narcotics,
include opium and drugs derived from opium, such as morphine, codeine and heroin.
THE EFFECTS OF DRUG ABUSE
1. PHYSICAL EFFECTS
a. Malnutrition – The life of an addict revolves around drug use. He misses even his regular
meals. He losses appetite and eventually develops malnutrition. Likewise, the drug dependent who
has tried on his own to withdraw may suffer from severe gastrointestinal disturbance that results to
severe dehydration.
b. Skin Infections and Skin Rashes - Oftentimes the drug abuser neglects his personal
hygiene, uses unsterilized needles and syringes that result in skin infections or even ulceration at the
sites of the needle puncture. Skin rashes may even occur as a side effect or sensitivity reaction to
certain drugs of abuse.
 Infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis, bronchitis, bronchial asthma, viral hepatitis, sequelae
of drug abuse. Marijuana smoking can produce physical conditions like chronic bronchitis and asthma.
Physically ill persons, like a tuberculosis individual who has suffered so much from his illness may
resort to drug taking as a temporary measure for relief. A drug abuser, because of his use of
unsterilized paraphernalia, tends to develop lowered resistance and becomes susceptible to various
infections, among them are viral hepatitis, and HIV infections/AIDS.
An individual suffering from arthritis or terminal cancer who experiences acute, unbearable
pains and insomnia is likely to become a drug dependent to opiates or sedatives.

2. PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS
a. Deterioration of personality with impaired emotional maturation.
b. Impairment of adequate mental function.
c. Loss of drive and ambition.
d. Development of psychosis and depression.
e. Loss of interest to study.
f. Laziness, lethargy, boredom and restlessness.
g. Irritability, rebellious attitude.
h. Withdrawn forgetfulness.
3. SOCIAL EFFECTS
a. Deterioration of interpersonal relationship and development of conflict with authority.
b. Leads to crime.
c. Social maladjustment; loss of desire to work, study and participate in activities or to face
challenges.
4. MENTAL EFFECTS
a. Adverse effect on the central nervous system. Regular use or injection of large doses of a
substance reduces the activity of the brain and depresses the central nervous system. The drug
dependent then manifests changes in his mind and behavior that are undesirable by people in his
environment.
b. Deterioration of the mind.
The dependent is a “mental invalid” in the sense that drugs can manipulate him, make him lose his
power, and prod him to behave contrary to what he usually think is right. These drugs are essentially
reality modifiers, which create a masked sense of well being by either dulling or distorting sensory
perceptions and providing a temporary means of escape from personal difficulties, either real or
imaginary. They can reduce or accelerate activity to create indifference, depressive mood, or
carelessness.
As a result, the abuser’s mind deteriorates gradually. In other instances, he abruptly loses interest
and motivation in the pursuit of achievement and constructive goals.
Instead of providing him relaxation and escape from discomfort, drug, alcohol and tranquilizers may
blur his attempts to come to terms with reality. His character becomes weak and inadequate in
coping with his problems.
5. ECONOMIC EFFECTS
a. Inability to hold stable job.
It is impossible for a drug abuser to hold a steady job since he spends all his time and money on
drugs. If he does not have a regular job, he and his friends steal to raise money. If he has one, he
would be unable to concentrate since he would be either overstimulated or lazy and drowsy.
b. Dependence on family resources.
Instead of contributing to the economic stability of the family, a dependent becomes an economic
burden. Besides depending on the family for his basic necessities, he also has to rely on the family
resources to provide him money for the support of his expensive habit.
c. Accidents in industry.
In a state of agitation or dullness of the mind as a result of the drug he has taken, the dependent
becomes careless and loses concentration on his job. Consequently, an accident may occur which
may adversely affect both drug abuser and his coworkers.
SYMPTOMS OF ABUSE ON THE DANGEROUS DRUGS
COMMON EFFECTS/SYMPTOMS OF DRUG ABUSE
1. DEPRESSANTS
a. Narcotics
1. lethargy, drowsiness
2. pupils are constricted and fail to respond to light
3. inhaling heroin in powder form leaves traces of white powder around nostrils causing
redness
4. injecting heroin leaves scars, usually on the inner surface of the arms and elbows although
user may inject drug in the body where needle marks will not be seen readily
5. user often leaves syringes, bent spoons, bottle caps, eye droppers, cotton and needles in
lockers at school or hidden at home 6. user scratches self frequently
7. loss if appetite
8. sniffles, running nose, red watery eyes, coughing which disappears when user gets a “fix”
b. Barbiturates/Tranquilizers
1. symptoms of alcohol intoxication without odor or alcohol on breath
2. staggering or stumbling
3. falling asleep unexplainably
4. drowsiness, may appear disoriented 5. lack of interest in school and family activities
 c. Volatile Solvents
1. odor of substance on breath and clothes
2. excessive nasal secretions, watering of eyes
3. poor muscular control
4. increased preference for being with a group rather than being alone
5. plastic or paper bags or rags, containing dry plastic cement or other solvent, found at home
or in locker at school or at work

2. STIMULANTS
a. Amphetamines/Cocaine/Speed/Bunnies/Ups
1. pupils may be dilated
2. mouth and nose dry, bad breath; licks lips frequently
3. goes long periods without eating or sleeping; nervous; has difficulty sitting still
4. chain smoking
5. if injecting drug, user may have hidden eye droppers and needles among possessions
b. Shabu
1. produces elevations of mood, heightened alertness and increased energy
2. some individuals may become anxious, irritable or loquacious
3. causes decreased appetite and insomnia
3. HALLUCINOGENS
a. Marijuana
1. may appear animated with rapid, loud talking and bursts of laughter
2. sleepy or stuporous
3. pupils are dilated
4. odor(similar to burnt rope) on clothing or breath
5. remnants of marijuana, either loose or in partially smoked “joints” in clothing or possessions
b. LSD/STP/DMT/THC
1. user usually sits or reclines quietly in a dream or trance – like state
2. user may become fearful and experience a degree of terror which makes him attempt to
escape from his group
3. senses of sight, hearing, touch, body image and time are distorted
 4. mood and behavior are affected, the manner depending upon emotional and environmental
condition of the user

INDIVIDUAL EFFECTS OF THE DANGEROUS DRUGS

1. DEPRESSANTS
a. Death due to respiratory arrest.
b. In large doses can cause respiratory depression and coma, the combination of depressants and
alcohol can multiply the effect of the drugs, thereby multiplying the risks.
c. Babies born to mothers who abuse depressants during pregnancy may be physically dependent on
the drug and show withdrawal symptom shortly after they are born. Birth defects and behavioral
problems may also result.
2. STIMULANTS
a. Death due to infections, high blood pressures.
b. Extremely high doses can cause a rapid or irregular heartbeat, tremors, loss of coordination, and
even physical collapse.
Shabu
a. Overdosage leads to chest pains, hypertension, acute psychotic reaction, convulsions and
death due to cardiac arrest
b. Due to the appetite suppressing effects of shabu, pregnant mother may become
malnourished. This may affect the nutritional needs of the baby.
c. Babies born to shabu-using women show sever emotional disturbances.
3. HALLUCINOGENS
Marijuana
a. Can lead to serious mental changes (psychoses) like insanity, suicidal and/or homicidal
tendencies
b. Poor impulse control.
c. Damage to chromosomes, hence, affecting potentially the offspring.
Effects On The Body
a. Brain – impairs skills for driving cars and operating machinery, interferes with memory, and
intellect.
b. Eyes – lowers pressure inside eye ball
c. Heart – raises heart rate, potentially hazardous to heart patients
 d. Lungs – impairs lung functions
e. Reproductive Organ – decreases sex hormones and sperm production in males
f. Immune System – impairs immunity of the body against infection and cancer
APPROACHES TO THE DRUG PROBLEM
The present nature and extent of drug abuse and misuse among the youth constitutes one of
the gravest health problems facing the nation and the world today. Public concern about drug abuse
is focused not only on drugs that can be abused but also on the individual who misuses them.
Today, there are many measures undertaken by both the private and the government sectors
in the fight against drug abuse as a disease of society. This includes the major approaches as
follows:
A. The Law Enforcement Approach
B. The Treatment and Rehabilitation Approach
C. The Educational Approach
D. The International Efforts Against Drug Abuse
THE LAW ENFORCEMENT APPROACH
The Philippine government considers drug abuse as a multi-faceted problem that threatens the
health and well being of the Filipinos across all levels of society. The Comprehensive Dangerous
Drugs Act of 2002 or Republic Act No. 9165 was enacted to add more teeth on the government
response to the ongoing problem on drug abuse in the country. This is the major arm of the
government in its law enforcement approaches that derived from the supply and demand reduction
strategies.
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9165: Important Features
R.A. 9165 – COMPREHENSIVE DANGEROUS DRUGS ACT OF 2002 (Approved on June 7, 2002 -
Effective July 4, 2002)
What is Dangerous Drug under this law?
Includes those listed in the schedules annexed to the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, as
amended by the 1972 Protocol, and the schedules annexed to the 1971 Single Convention on
Psychotropic Substances (Art 1, Sec. 3).
Ex. MMDA – Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (Ecstacy), Tetrahydrocannabinol (MJ); Mescaline
(Peyote)
What are the Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemicals?
Include those listed in Tables I and II of the 1988 UN Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic
Drugs and Psychotrophic Substances (Art 1, Sec 3)
Ex. Table
1 – Acetic Anhydride, N- Acetyl Anthranilic Acid, Epedrine, Ergometrine, Lysergic Acid Table
2 – Acetone, Ethyl Ether, Hydrochloric Acid, Sulfuric Acid, etc.
NOTE: Under RA 6425 (Dangerous Drugs Act of 1972), Dangerous drugs refers to the Prohibited
drugs,
Regulated drugs and Volatile substances.
Prohibited Drugs – ex. Opium and its derivatives, Cocaine and its derivatives, Hallucinogen drugs like
MJ, LSD, and Mescaline Regulated drugs – ex. Barbiturates, Amphetamines, Tranquillizers
Volatile Substances – ex. rugby, paints, thinner, glue, gasoline
Table 8. What are the Unlawful Acts and Penalties?
NOTE: Section 15 shall not be applicable where the person tested is also found to have in his/her
possession such quantity of any dangerous drug provided in sec.11, in which case the penalty
provided in sec. 11 shall apply.
NOTE: The Possession of Dangerous drugs in the following quantities, regardless of degree of purity:
10 grams or more of opium; morphine; heroin; cocaine; MJ resin; 10 grams or more of MMDA, LSD
and similar dangerous drugs; 50 grams or more of “shabu”/ Methamphetamine Hydrochloride; 500
grams or more of Marijuana.
If the quantity involved is less than the foregoing, the penalties shall be graduated as follows:
1. Life imprisonment and a fine ranging from P400, 000 to P500, 000 if “shabu” is 10 grams or more
but less than 50 grams;
2. Imprisonment of 20 yrs and 1 day to Life imprisonment and a fine ranging from P400, 000 to
P500, 000 if the quantities of dangerous drugs are 5 grams or more but less than 10 grams of opium,
morphine, heroin, cocaine, mj resin, shabu, MMDA, and 300 grams or more but less than 500 grams
of marijuana
3. Imprisonment of 12 yrs and 1 day to 20 yrs and a fine ranging from P300, 000 to P400, 000 if the
quantities of dangerous drugs are less than 5 grams of opium, morphine, heroin, cocaine, mj resin,
shabu, MMDA, and less than 300 grams of marijuana.
The Unlawful Acts Punishable by Death Penalty
(Prior to the abolition of Death Penalty)
1. Importation or bringing into the Philippines of dangerous drugs using diplomatic passport or
facilities or any means involving his/her official status to facilitate unlawful entry of the same (sec 4,
Art II).
2. Upon any person who organizes, manages or acts as “financiers” of any of the activities involving
dangerous drugs (sec 4, 5, 6, 8 Art II).
3. Sale, Trading, Administration, Dispensation, Delivery, Distribution and transportation of Dangerous
Drugs and/or Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemicals with in 100 meters from the school (sec
5, Art II).
4. Drugs pushers who use minors or mentally incapacitated individuals as runners, couriers and
messengers or in any other capacity directly connected to the dangerous drug trade (sec 5, Art II).
5. If the victim of the offense is a minor or mentally incapacitated individual, or should a dangerous
drug and/or controlled precursors and essential chemical involved in the offense be the proximate
cause of death of the victim (sec 5, Art II).
6. When dangerous drug is administered, delivered or sold to a minor who is allowed to use the same
in such a place (sec 6, Art II).
7. Upon any person who uses a minor or mentally incapacitated individual to deliver equipment,
instrument, apparatus and other paraphernalia for dangerous drugs (sec. 10, Art II).
8. Possession of dangerous Drugs during Parties, Social Gatherings or Meetings (sec. 13), and
Possession of Equipment, Instrument, Apparatus and other Paraphernalia for Dangerous Drugs
during Parties, Social Gatherings or Meetings (sec. 14)
What is the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB)?
The DDB is the policy-making body and strategy-making body in the planning and formulation of
policies and programs on drug prevention and control. (under the Office of the President) (sec. 77,
Art IX)
Composition: 17 members (3 as permanent, 12 as exofficio, 2 regular members)(sec. 78, Art IX)
3 permanent members: to be appointed by the President, one to be the Chairman. 12 ex officio
members: Secretary of DOJ, DOH, DND, DOF, DOLE, DILG, DSWD, DFA, and DepEd, Chairman of
CHED, NYC, and the Dir.Gen of PDEA.
2 regular members: President of the IBP, and the Pres/Chaiman of an NGO involved in a dangerous
drug campaign to be appointed by the President.
The NBI Director the Chief of the PNP – permanent consultant of the Board.
What are the Powers and Duties of the DDB? (sec. 81, Art IX)
1. Formulation of Drug Prevention and Control Strategy,
2. Promulgation of Rules and Regulation to carry out the purposes of this Act,
3. Conduct policy studies and researches,
4. Develop educational programs and info drive,
5. Conduct continuing seminars and consultations,
6. Design special training,
7. Coordination with agencies for community service programs,
8. Maintain international networking.
What is the PDEA?
PDEA means Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.
It is the implementing arm of the DDB and responsible for the efficient and effective law enforcement
of all the provisions on any dangerous drugs and/ or precursors and essential chemicals.
Head: Director General – appointed by the President Assisted By: 2 Deputies Director General (one
for Admin, another for Opns) – appointed by the President (sec. 82, Art IX).
PDEA Operating Units:
It absorbed the NDLE-PCC (created under E.O. 61), NARCOM of the PNP, Narcotics Division of the
NBI, and the Customs Narcotics Interdiction Unit (sec. 86, Art IX).
What are the Powers and Functions of the PDEA? (sec. 84, Art IX)
1. Cause the effective and efficient implementation of the national drug control strategy,
2. Enforcement of the provisions of Art II of this Act,
3. Undertake investigation, make arrest and apprehension of violators and seizure and confiscation of
dangerous drugs,
4. Establish forensic laboratories,
5. Filing of appropriate drug cases,
6. Conduct eradication programs,
7. Maintain a national drug intelligence system,
8. Close coordination with local and international drug agencies.
Other Features of R.A 9165
1. In the revised law, importation of any illegal drug, regardless of quantity and purity or any part
therefrom even for floral, decorative and culinary purposes is punishable with life imprisonment to
death and a fine ranging from P500, 000 to P10 million.
2. The trading, administration, dispensation, delivery, distribution, and transportation of dangerous
drugs is also punishable by life imprisonment to death and a fine ranging from P500, 000 to P10
million.
3. Any person who shall sell, trade, administer, dispense, deliver, give away to another or distribute,
dispatch in transit or transport any dangerous drugs regardless of quantity and purity shall be
punished with life imprisonment to death and a fine ranging from P500, 000 to P10 million.
 But if the sale, administration, delivery, distribution or transportation of any of these illegal
drugs transpires with in 100 meters from any school, the maximum penalty shall be imposed.
 Pushers who use minors or mentally incapacitated individuals as runners, couriers, and
messengers or in dangerous drug transactions shall also be meted with the maximum penalty.
 A penalty of 12 yrs to 20 yrs imprisonment shall be imposed on financiers, coddlers, and
managers of the illegal activity.
4. The law also penalizes anybody found in possession of any item or paraphernalia used to
administer, produce, cultivate, propagate, harvest, compound, convert, process, pack, store, contain
or conceal illegal drugs with an imprisonment of 12 yrs to 20 yrs and a fine of P100, 000 to P500,
000.
5. Owners of resorts, dives, establishments, and other places where illegal drugs are administered is
deemed liable under this new law, the same shall be confiscated and escheated in favor of the
government.
6. Any person who shall be convicted of violation of this new law, regardless of the quantity of the
drugs and the penalty imposed by the court shall not be allowed to avail the privilege provisions of
the Probation Law (P.D. 968).
(sec.58, Art VIII) Filing of charges against a drug dependent for confinement and rehabilitation under
voluntary submission program can be made:
1. second commitment to the center
2. upon recommendation of the DDB
3. may be charge for violation of sec. 15
4. if convicted – confinement and rehabilitation
Parents, spouse or guardian who refuses to cooperate with the Board or any concerned agency in the
treatment and rehabilitation of a drug dependent may be cited for Contempt of Court (sec. 73, Art
VIII).
Anti-Drug Drives and Operational Concepts
The Operational Plans (OPLANS) against the Drug Problem are:
1. Oplan Thunderbolt I –operation to create impact to the underworld
2. Oplan Thunderbolt II –operations to neutralize suspected illegal drug laboratories
3. Oplan Thunderbolt III – Operations for the neutralization of big time drug pushers’ drug dealers
and drug lords.
4. Oplan Iceberg – Special operations team in selected drug prone areas in order to get rid of illegal
drug activities in the area.
5. Oplan Hunter – operations against suspected military and police personnel who are engage in
illegal drug activities.
6. Oplan Mercurion – Operations against drug stores, which are violating existing regulations on the
scale of regulated drugs in coordination with the DDB, DOH and BFAD.
7. Oplan Tornado – Operations in drug notorious and high profile places.
8. Oplan Greengold – nation wide MJ eradication operations in coordination with the local
governments and NGO’s.
9. Oplan Sagip-Yagit – A civic program initiated by NGO’s and local government offices to help
eradicate drug syndicates involving street children as drug conduit.
10. Oplan Banat – the newest operational plan against drug abuse focused in the barangay level in
cooperation with barangay officials.
11. Oplan Athena – operation conducted to neutralize the 14k, the Bamboo gang and other local
organized crimes groups involved in illegal drug trafficking.
12. Oplan Cyclops – operations against Chinese triad members involved in the illegal drug operations
particularly Methamphetamine Hydrocloride.
In the conduct of anti-drug operations, the following must be strictly considered:
1. Respect for Human Rights (Sec. 11, Art. 2, Phil. Constitution)
2. Respect for right of the people to due process and equal protection (Sec. 1, Art. 3, Phil.
Constitution)
3. Respect of Right of the people against unreasonable search and seizure. (Sec. 2, Art. 3, Phil.
Constitution).
4. Respect for right of the people to privacy of communication (Sec. 3, Art. 3, Phil. Constitution).
5. Respect for constitutional rights of the accused undergoing custodial investigation (RA 7438), (Sec.
12, Art. 3, Phil. Constitution)
6. Respect for the statutory rights of the accused undergoing custodial investigation under RA 7438.
The Principles of Drug Operations are:
1. Knowledge on circumstances on when to use necessary force (Art. 11, Chapter 3, RPC).
2. Knowledge on the statutory provisions on arrest (Rule 113, Rules on Criminal Procedures).
3. Knowledge on the administrative guidelines on arrest, search and seizure.
4. The Miranda Doctrine (384 U.S. 346)
5. Warrantless Search and Search incidental to lawful arrest (Rule 126, Rules on Criminal Procedure).
National Campaign Strategies
1. Demand Reduction Strategy
a. Preventive education and information campaigns to prevent further demand of society
particularly the youth. b. Treatment and rehabilitation of drug dependents.
2. Supply Reduction Strategy
a. Dangerous Drug Law enforcement
b. Judicial and Legislative measures
Operational Plans against the Drug Problem
1. Oplan Thunderbolt I – operations to create impact to the underworld.
2. Oplan Thunderbolt II – operations to neutralize suspected illegal drug laboratories.
3. Oplan Thunderbolt III – operations for the neutralization of big time drug pushers, drug dealers
and drug lords.
4. Oplan Iceberg – special operations team in selected drug prone areas in order to get rid of illegal
drug activities in the area.
5. Oplan Hunter – operations against suspected military and police personnel who are engaged in
illegal drug activities.
6. Oplan Mercurio – operations against drug stores, which are violating existing regulations on the
scale of regulated drugs in coordination with the DDB/DOH and BFAD.
7. Oplan Tornado – operations in drug notorious and high profile places.
8. Oplan Greengold –nationwide MJ eradication operations in coordination with the local governments
and NGO’s.
9. Oplan Sagip-Yagit – A civic program initiated by NGO’s and local government offices to help
eradicate drug syndicates involving street children as drug conduits.
10. Oplan Banat – the newest operational plan against drug abuse focused in the barangay level in
cooperation with barangay officials.
Rules on Narcotics Operations
General Rules and Procedures:
1. Only specially trained and competent drug enforcement personnel shall conduct drug enforcement
and prevention operations.
2. All drug enforcement and prevention operations shall be covered by a Pre-Operations report.
3. All steps taken before, during, and after the conduct of the operation must be documented and
properly authenticated.
4. Operating units shall promptly submit written a report after the operation.
5. No apprehendee or seized item shall be released without authorization from the duly designated
authority.
6. All pieces of evidence confiscated will be deposited with the proper Evidence Custodian for
safekeeping and proper handling.
7. Each participating element must be given clear and do-able task
Coverage of the Rules
1. Coverage: The rules covers the following antinarcotics operations.
a. Buy-bust Operations
b. Search with warrant
c. MJ Eradication
d. Mobile Check point Operations
e. Airport/Seaport Interdiction
f. Controlled delivery
g. Undercover Operations
h. Narcotics Investigation
2. Stages of Operations:
Phase I – Initial stage
 Planning and preparations which include surveillance, casing, reconnaissance and other preliminary
activities.
 Conduct the operation
Phase II – Action and post-action stage
 Tactical interrogation (follow-up operation)
 Post operation
 Custodial Investigation
 Prosecution
 Trial
 Resolution
Buy-Bust Operations
a. Concept: It is a form of entrapment employed by peace officers as an effective way of
apprehending a criminal in the act of the commission of the offense. Entrapment has received judicial
sanction as long as it is carried with due regard to constitutional and legal safeguards.
b. Planning and Preparation: The operation must be preceded by an intensive surveillance,
casing, or other intelligence operations and gathering, evaluation and timely dissemination.
Intelligence must be evidence-based and shall be supported by documents such as summaries of
info, maps, sketches, affidavits and sworn statements.
Search For Drug Evidence with Warrant
a. Concept: A search warrant is an order in writing issued in the name of the People of the
Philippines, signed by a judge and directed to a peace officer, commanding him to search for
personal property described therein and bring it before the court. (Sec. 1, Rule 126, Revised Rules of
Court)
b. Planning and Preparation:
1. Prior to the procurement of search warrant, intensive intelligence data gathering must be
undertaken, evidence-based and supported by credible documents.
2. Conduct of surveillance, casing, and other intelligence operations.
3. Identification, movement, activities and location of suspects should be established.
4. Search warrant shall be applied with competent court
5. Conduct of Operation
6. Submission of reports
Marijuana Eradication
a. Concept: Marijuana eradication involves the location and destruction of marijuana plantations,
including the identification, arrest and prosecution of the planter, owner or cultivator, and the
escheating of the land where the plantations are located.
b. Planning and Preparation: The planning and operation shall be preceded by intelligence
gathering to verify the existence of marijuana plantation and the existence to be supported by
documentary evidence such as summary of information, maps, sketches, photographs and others.
The intelligence gathering must be appropriately documented by pre-operations orders and after-
casing reports.
c. Conduct of Operation:
1. Briefing, rehearsals, and proper formations.
2. Exact location of the plantation must be established.
3. Identify owner of the land or the cultivators.
4. Coordination with other operating units in the area.
5. Barangay eradication team should be organized.
6. Strict compliance with SOPs under Rules of Opns.
Mobile Checkpoint Operations
a. Concept: No other forms of checkpoints other than mobile checkpoints are authorized for drug
enforcement and prevention operations. They shall be established only in conjunction with on-going
operations/situation or when there is a need to arrest a criminal.
b. Planning and Operation: Intensive intelligence gathering supported by credible documents,
with proper pre-operations orders and after surveillance or after casing reports.
c. Conduct of Operations shall be in consonance with the existing SOPs on checkpoint operations.
Airport and Seaport Interdiction
a. Concept: Airport and seaport interdiction involves the conduct of surveillance, interception and
interdiction of persons and evidence during travel by air or sea vessels.
b. Planning and Operation: Intensive intelligence gathering supported by credible documents,
with proper pre-operations orders and after surveillance or after casing reports.
c. Conduct of Operations
1. Coordination with airport and seaport authorities.
2. Operations shall be in consonance with the existing SOPs on airport and seaport
checks/operations.