DILG orders probe into drug hauls from 2016

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla announced on Monday that a nationwide investigation into drug hauls beginning in 2016 would be conducted following recent orders to file criminal charges against at least 30 police officers.

The Department of Justice has ordered the filing of criminal charges against these officers for violations under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, including planting evidence and delaying prosecutions.

Remulla suggested that a reward system implemented by the Philippine National Police (PNP) in 2016 may have led to unreported drug seizures and false reports, potentially fostering corruption within the force.

Prosecutors believe there is strong evidence supporting conspiracy among police officials to cover up botched drug operations, as seen in the case of dismissed Police Master Sergeant Rodolfo Mayo Jr., who was involved in a staged operation.

The DoJ recently filed charges against 30 erring cops, including two generals, for planting evidence and mishandling a high-profile drug case involving the seizure of over 900 kilograms of methamphetamine worth P6.7 billion in Tondo, Manila.