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DU30: UNANG SONA

Duterte: We will not stop until last drug pusher, drug lord put behind bars


President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday reiterated that his fight against criminality, illegal drugs and corruption will be "relentless and sustained."

In his first State of the Nation Address, Duterte urged the Philippine National Police and local government officials not to "lower their guard" against crooks.

"There will be no let up in this campaign. Double your efforts, triple them if need be. We will not stop until the last drug lord, last financer and last pusher have surrendered or put behind bars or below the ground if they so wish," the President, drawing loud cheers from the packed Batasan Pambansa.

PNP chief Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa was also seen clapping and grinning from ear to ear.

Since July 1, the PNP has arrested 3,213 drug personalities nationwide and killed 239 drug suspects in police operations.

A total of 120,038 voluntarily yielded to authorities, among them, 112,902 drug users and, 7,107 pushers.

Duterte also encouraged law enforcement personnel to do their jobs well, saying he will be with them "all the way."

"Abuse your authority and there will be hell to pay for you will become worse than criminality itself," he said.

The President ordered the National Police Commission to expedite the investigation and adjudication of administrative complaints against police officials believed to be involved in criminal activities and prescribed rules for lifestyle checks for policemen.

He directed the Department of Interior and Local Government to "strictly monitor" how local government units perform their supervision of the police and vowed to create an inter-agency committee on illegal drugs.

"In  this quest, I will put at stake my honor, my life and the presidency itself," Duterte said.

"I repeat. Do not do drugs because you willl be the solution to the drug crisis that has engulfed the nation." — RSJ, GMA News

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