PNP presses for random checks in public schools vs. drug pushers

We have a proposal to conduct random checks in different schools because apparently, these drug pushers spare no one. They are also trying to infiltrate elementary schools and they want children, at an early age, to be drug addicts,” Albayalde said. (Photo: Philippine National Police/Facebook)

MANILA — Authorities are raising the alarm against illegal drug pushers who are targeting minors inside school premises.

Speaking to newsmen Thursday, Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Director General Oscar Albayalde said the specter of elementary pupils taking drugs and other illegal substances is no longer a new phenomenon.

“Meron tayong proposal sa mga iba’t ibang eskuwelahan na kung pupuwede magkaroon ng random checks dahil apparently, itong mgadrug pushers, wala na talagang pinipili. Pati yung mga bata, elementary schools, pinapasok na nila at sa murang edad gusto nilang maging adik (We have a proposal to conduct random checks in different schools because apparently, these drug pushers spare no one. They are also trying to infiltrate elementary schools and they want children, at an early age, to be drug addicts),” Albayalde said.

The PNP chief underscored the need to work with the Department of Education (DepEd) to secure public schools against the drug menace.

“Kaya napaka-importante yung coordination natin sa (That’s why it is important for us to coordinate with) DepEd,” Albayalde said.

The PNP chief said they have already identified which schools have been infiltrated but understood that there would be no need to divulge the names of the schools.

“We just have to talk to principals,” he said.