MARCH 2025, Vienna, Austria – The Philippines highlighted its human rights- and health-oriented reforms in its combat against drug abuse and trafficking at the 68th Session of the Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND68) in Vienna from 10 to 14 March 2025.

“The Philippines has advocated for a human rights-based, public health-centered approach to drug control. Our enhanced Philippine Anti-Illegal Drugs Strategy prioritizes health, social, and developmental services alongside supply and demand reduction efforts,” said Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Crispin Remulla, the head of the Philippine delegation, during the CND General Debate.

The Philippines shared that it is undertaking an executive review of the country’s drug policies. It will take a whole-of-nation approach that integrates law enforcement, prevention, socio-economic, and health interventions to create an effective and unified response against illegal drugs.

Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) Chair Oscar Valenzuela, who is a member of the Philippine delegation said in an intervention, “The Philippines remains committed to the global fight against the world drug problem. We firmly believe that through strengthened national policies, regional cooperation, and international collaboration, we can significantly reduce the devastating and alarming impact of drug abuse and trafficking.”

The CND is the United Nations' central drug policy-making body. This year’s session, brought together over 2,000 delegates from various countries, international organizations, and civil society. In addition to the DOJ and DDB, the Philippine delegation was composed of officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Health, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Office of the Solicitor General. END.