WAR ON DRUG

DEFINITION OF TERM
● The term “war on drugs refers to the global campaign, led by the United
States federal government, drug prohibition, military aid, and military
intervention, with the aim of reducing the illegal drug trade in the United
States.
● The war on drugs has been controversial since its inception, with critics
arguing that it has led to mass incarceration, police brutality, and the
militarization of law enforcement.

HISTORY OF WAR ON DRUGS (FOREIGN)

● The War on Drugs began in June 1971 when U.S. Pres. Richard Nixon
declared drug abuse to be “public enemy number one” and increased federal
funding for drug-control agencies and drug treatment efforts.
● In 1973 the Drug Enforcement Administration was created out of the
merger of the Office for Drug Abuse Law Enforcement, the Bureau of
Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, and the Office of Narcotics Intelligence to
consolidate federal efforts to control drug abuse.

HISTORY OF WAR ON DRUGS (LOCAL)

● The Philippine drug war, led by President Rodrigo Duterte, has led to an
estimated 7,742 civilian deaths in anti-drug operations. Duterte warned of
the country's potential to become a narco-state and promised relentless
fighting against illegal drugs.
● However, media and human rights groups have condemned the campaign,
with police allegedly staging crime scenes. Duterte admitted to
underestimating the problem and blamed government officials for
involvement. In 2022, Duterte urged his successor, Bongbong Marcos, to
continue the war on drugs.

ARGUMENT SUPPORING ON WAR ON DRUGS

● One argument supporting the war on drugs in the Philippines is that it
has resulted in a significant decrease in drug-related crimes and drug
addiction rates.
● The war on drugs in the Philippines is necessary and justified. The
country has been grappling with a severe drug problem for years, which has
not only affected individuals but also communities as a whole. Drug abuse
has led to an increase in crime rates, violence, and corruption.

ARGUMENT AGAINST ON WAR ON DRUGS

● One argument against the war on drugs in the Philippines is that it has
led to a significant increase in human rights abuses. The aggressive approach
was taken by law enforcement, under the direction of President Rodrigo
Duterte.
● Another argument against the war on drugs is its impact on public health.
The heavy-handed approach often discourages drug users from seeking
medical assistance or harm reduction services due to fear of criminalization
or punishment.

MORAL JUDGMENT AS A STUDENT IN A CATHOLIC

● From a Catholic perspective, it is essential to uphold the dignity of every
human life and recognize the value of human beings as beloved children of
God. The Church teaches principles of social justice and the preferential
option for the poor, advocating for a society that promotes the well-being and
flourishing of all individuals, including those affected by substance abuse.
● Additionally, it is important to discern the root causes of drug addiction
and address them holistically. This involves considering societal factors such
as poverty, lack of education, and mental health issues, and working towards
solutions that promote human flourishing and healing.