The recent developments in President Duterte’s antidrug campaign uncovered the major weakness of this administration: Nobody has the critical mind and courage to challenge the Duterte approach to stopping the drug menace.
Obviously the Duterte formula has basic flaws, but administration executives failed to see these weaknesses, namely:
1) It did not address the supply side of drugs and minimizing distribution, by catching drug lords, importers and distributors.
2) Corrupt enforcers were left uncontrolled.
3) The rule of law was completely disregarded.
We now need a new beginning and a more effective and long-lasting campaign to solve the drug problem. The leader for it must have sole authority, great personal conviction and the readiness to sacrifice for the sake of the country.
Vice President Leni Robredo fits this position as a civilian authority who must lead, specifically in conceptualizing and planning a nationwide campaign. Her team must be composed of lawyers, health officers, sociologists and psychologists. The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, the National Bureau of Investigation and the police should handle the enforcement agenda of the Robredo program. We must succeed this time!
WILFREDO LUPOS, walupos@gmail.com