(Eagle News) — Those who are engaged in illegal drug activities should no longer file their certificates of candidacy for the upcoming barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections, the Department of the Interior and Local Government said on Friday, April 13.
“Do your country a favor. Do not even consider the thought of filing your certificate of candidacy for any position..,” officer-in-charge Eduardo Año was quoted as saying in a statement.
He said these individuals should not use “public office to cover up” their involvement in the “narco trade.”
Nor should they “corrupt public funds for (their) crimes,” he said.
“How can one have the moral authority to spearhead the drive against illegal drugs in their barangays if they themselves are tagged as protectors, financiers or users?” he asked, noting that barangay officials were supposed to lead the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils.
He said the BADACs “plan, strategize, implement and evaluate programs and projects on drug abuse prevention,” and were also “expected to coordinate and collaborate with other institutions like the (Philippine National Police) and the municipal or city government in implementing programs and projects.”
“Not under the watch of President Duterte. Not under my watch in the DILG…,” he said.
The filing of certificates of candidacy for the May barangay and SK elections begins on Saturday, April 14.
