AN IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS OF THE PHILIPPINE DRUG ENFORCEMENT AGENCY'S ROLES AND STRATEGIES: TOWARDS A FRAMEWORK DEVELOPMENT


Luciano Ricardo Jr. B
Philippine College of Criminology, Philippines
Abstract
This study presents an in-depth analysis of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency’s (PDEA) roles and strategies in combating the illegal drug trade to develop a strategic framework to enhance the agency’s effectiveness. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study gathered data from administrators and drug enforcement officers (DEOs) through surveys and interviews to evaluate the extent of implementation, effectiveness, challenges, and perceptions surrounding PDEA’s core functions. Key focus areas included enforcement operations, inter-agency and international collaboration, community engagement, public health impacts, technology use, and the influence of legal and institutional obstacles. Findings revealed that while PDEA’s enforcement efforts are perceived to be effective to a considerable extent—particularly in disrupting drug supply chains and engaging communities—several challenges persist. These include resource limitations, evolving drug trafficking methods, insufficient technological integration, and disparities in public cooperation. Statistical analysis also showed significant differences in perceptions between administrators and DEOs on aspects such as international cooperation and technology utilization. The study proposes a six-component strategic framework, dubbed INTEGRATE-PDEA, which includes Intelligence and Technology Integration, Strengthened Cooperation, Community Engagement, Rehabilitation and Reintegration, Capacity Building, and Monitoring and Adaptation. This integrated model addresses both supply and demand reduction, promotes ethical and data-driven enforcement, and strengthens institutional coordination. Ultimately, the research underscores the importance of a balanced, multi-sectoral approach that combines enforcement with prevention, rehabilitation, and stakeholder collaboration. The proposed framework serves as a guide for future policy development, capacity-building efforts, and reforms aimed at improving the sustainability and impact of national drug control initiatives.
Keywords: PDEA, Drug Enforcement, Counter-Narcotics, Framework Development, Community Engagement, Rehabilitation, International Cooperation, Philippines.
Journal Name :
EPRA International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (IJMR)

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Published on : 2025-12-16

Vol : 11
Issue : 12
Month : December
Year : 2025
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