MANILA, Philippines – The Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) reported a downward trend in the number of drug users based on the results of the National Household Survey conducted from 2004 to 2023.

The survey showed that in 2004, there were 6,765,773 reported drug users. However, in 2008, a 74.59% decline was noted, with the number dropping to 1,718,855. This downward trend continued until 2012, when 1,319,135 drug users were reported, reflecting a 23.25% decrease.

A slight increase of 33.09% was recorded in 2015, with the number rising to 1,755,654 drug users.

For 2019 and 2023, there were significant decreases in the number of drug users, with a 4.59% decline to 1,675,122 in 2019 and an 11.07% drop to 1,479,131 in 2023.

According to DDB representative Rebecca Arambulo, the increase in 2015 was “supported by the rise in the number of admissions to the different rehabilitation centers for that period.”

“Ibig sabihin, mas nag-increase yung accessibility nung ating drug dependents sa rehab services, and based on preliminary analysis, the increase is based on trafficking activity both local and international,” Arambulo said.

The DDB also noted that drug trafficking networks had become more sophisticated, utilizing technology, cryptocurrency, and the dark web.

The downward trend, on the other hand, was attributed to strategies such as treatment and rehabilitation, preventive education, and local and regional cooperation.

When Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr. asked if “the war on drugs was not actually that effective, yes or no,” DDB’s Michael Miatari replied, “As reflected, yes.”

The DDB emphasized that the National Household Survey was conducted with a 95% confidence level and a +/- margin of error of 1.41%.

Former President Rodrigo Duterte, during his term, claimed there were about 4 million drug users in the country, which was his justification for launching the war on drugs under the codename “Oplan Tokhang.”

📷 House of Representatives of the Philippines FB