President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos on Monday declared that the country's campaign against illegal drugs continues but it has evolved and now has a new face.
"The campaign against illegal drugs continues but it has taken on a new face," he said during his second state address to the nation held at the Batasang Pambansa Complex.
"It is now geared toward community-based treatment, communication, and reintegration to curb drug dependents amongst our affected citizens," Marcos added.
He then mentioned the launch of the establishment of the 102 Buhay Ingatan, Droga Ayawan (BIDA) Balay Silangan reformation centers across the country.
BIDA reformation centers are a nationwide anti-narcotics drive that aims to curb illegal drugs by focusing on demand reduction and rehabilitation of communities.
The President also assured the public that the government shall "relentlessly" proceed in the fight against drug syndicates by shutting down their illegal activities and dismantling their networks.
In connection with this, Marcos said that he will be accepting the resignation of law enforcement officials who will be proven to be involved in illegal drug trade.
Earlier, an advisory group was formed to review the resignation of generals and full colonels of the Philippine National Police (PNP) who may be possibly part of the illegal drugs.
The President said he will instead appoint officials who have "unquestionable integrity" and are "effective and trustworthy in handling the task" of eliminating what he called a "dreaded and corrosive social curse."
"We cannot tolerate corruption or incompetence in government," he stressed.
Marcos further said that the country is now progressing toward peace and development from the previous armed struggle.
