The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PRO-BARMM) destroyed over P65 million worth of seized illegal drugs at the open ground of the Capitol Site, Hall of Justice in Patikul, Sulu on Wednesday, April 24, 2024.

According to the PDEA-BARMM, the destruction was done through the method called “rendering inert” based on the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Guidelines for the Safe Handling and Disposal of Chemicals used in the Illicit Manufacture of Drugs.

It is ‘intended for use in remote locations where waste management infrastructure and expert technical support are not available and where an immediate and pressing need exists for the disposal of seized illegal drugs.’

The mixture was molded into a cement marker placed at the entrance of the Hall of Justice ‘to serve as testament to the joint coordination, collaboration, and cooperation of the herein agencies in the seizure and destruction of over P65 million worth of illegal drugs.’

“Let this stand as a reminder of our solemn duty in the campaign against illegal drugs, for it not only leads to ruin but also obscures the path to a brighter tomorrow,” PDEA-BARMM said.

The destruction was witnessed by Judge Shene Cañete of RTC Branch 4, Patikul, Sulu and other local officials.

“By destroying these dangerous drugs, the government is sending a powerful message of integrity and transparency to the public. It is a demonstration of our commitment to keeping our communities safe and free from illegal drugs. Let us all take inspiration from this act and continue to work hand in hand toward a better, safer, and drug-free Bangsamoro,” PDEA-BARMM Director, Gil Cesario Castro, said.