Local execs seek revised drug law

Some 2,500 local officials from Luzon called yesterday for the reduction in the required volume of illegal drugs which must be in the possession of a suspect to warrant prosecution for drug trafficking.

The proposal was among the measures sought by local officials after a one-day anti-illegal drugs forum to step up government's campaign against illegal drugs in the country.

Heads of local government leagues, including the Sanggunian Kabataan and Mamamayan Ayaw sa Droga Foundation, signed an Affirmation of Commitments at the PICC to support President Estrada's calls for a drug-free society.

Local executives called for the reduction of the current allowable quantity prescribed by law from 200 grams to about 10 grams or even one gram of illegal drugs, in order to prosecute suspects for drug trafficking.

They aso pressed for a no plea bargaining policy as well as a redefinition of prohibited and controlled drugs.

The anti-illegal drugs forum was organized by the Department of the Interior and Local Government under Secretary Alfredo Lim, and Undersecretary Narciso Santiago Jr., in cooperation with the Dangerous Drugs Board and the National Drug Law Enforcement and Prevention Coordinating Center.