Taytay: The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) 10 (Northern Mindanao) is now focusing on "demand reduction" mechanisms to prevent the proliferation of illegal drugs, noting a shift in the profile of drug users and peddlers, an official announced Thursday. PDEA-10 Director Alex Tablate said that while the agency continues to work with the police on supply reduction through raids, demand reduction has become equally relevant as recent operations show greater involvement by parents.

According to Philippines News Agency, Director Tablate noted a significant change in the demographics of those involved in drug activities. "Ten or 20 years ago, we got to identify the youths, but in our recent operations, we noticed even mothers and fathers were also involved now," he stated in a statement. He emphasized the importance of families initiating drug prevention measures within their households and educating members on the realities, legal consequences, and health risks of engaging with illegal drugs.

PDEA-10 has been actively collaborating with the police to dismantle drug dens in the region. The most recent operation in Barangay Gango, Libona town, Bukidnon, was on February 24, where three suspects were apprehended. The agency's strategic shift toward demand reduction aims to curb the growing involvement of various demographic groups in illegal drug activities.