DETECTION OF DRUG ABUSERS

Detecting a drug user is not an easy task. The signs and symptoms of drug abuse, especially in the
beginning stages can be identical to those produced by conditions having nothing whatsoever to do with
drugs.
It is always necessary to exercise certain prudence before drawing conclusions. Some judgments may
only hurt the individual; if he is innocent and one may lose his love and trust. Only after observing calmly and
patiently his behavior, appearance and associations, may one pass judgment and act.
To detect a drug abuser one should observe the following:
1. neglect of personal appearance
2. diminished drive, lack of ambition
3. reduced attention span
4. poor quality of school work
5. impaired communication skills
6. less care for the feeling of others, lessening of accustomed family warmth
7. pale face, red eyes, dilation or constricted pupils, wearing sunglasses at wrong places
8. change from active to passive and withdrawn behavior
9. secretive about money, disappearance of money and other valuables from the house
10. friends refusing to identify themselves or hang up when you answer the phone
11. overreaction to mild conditions
12. smell of marijuana, sweetish odor, like a burned rope in the clothes or room, etc.
13. symptoms of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, muscular aches, insomnia and convulsions, etc.
14. presence of :
a. butt from marijuana joint
b. holders (i.e. pipe clips) for the joint
c. presence of leaves, seeds in pockets or lining
d. rolling paper, pipes, “bong” in closet or pocket
e. cough syrup bottles, capsules, syringes, etc.
f. visines or Eye-Mo bottles to treat red eyes
g. devices for hiding drugs like trash cans, soft drinks bottles
h. presence of other pills like valium, artane, other tranquilizers
i. presence of physician’s prescription pad in blank form

IDENTIFICATION OF DRUG ABUSER

The following markers can help in identifying them:

1. Change in interest – they lose interest in their studies and in their work. They fail in school, shift from one
course to another, transfer of school of lower standard until eventually drop out.
2. Frequent shifting of mood – they are euphoric, elated and sometimes even ecstatic when under the
influence of drugs. They would be indifferent, irritable and even hostile when the effect of drug is waning
from the system.
3. Changes in behavior – they usually spend a lot. They are usually in the company of known drug users in
the community. They come home late; they become disrespectful and would sell personal or family
valuables.
4. Changes in physical appearance – if they can be seen while still under the influence of drugs the following
can be noted:
The following can also help in identifying drug abusers.
a. They know the lingo of the abusers, i.e. OMAD. Chongki, Bitin, etc.
b. Presence of linear scar in the arms, forearms and abdomen.
c. Lobule of left ear punctured and some of the males even wear earrings.

PROCESS OF DETECTING DRUG ABUSERS

The detection of drug abuse involves five processes namely:
a. Observation
b. History taking
c. Laboratory examination
d. Psychological examination
e. Psychiatric evaluation
1. OBSERVATION
 Observations of the signs and symptoms of drug abuse may take relatively a long period of time. Good
sensory equipment and a high degree of objectivity are two requirements for a good observer. To be an
effective observer, the observer should not let his own personal judgements and reactions affect his
observations. He should exercise care in his observation such that the suspected drug abuser is not made
aware of being observed.
2. HISTORY TAKING
A. Collateral Information (Interview with information)
The best information is from the patient himself, but collateral information is necessary. Ideally, a
parent or close relative or a close friend should be present to furnish useful details as to the different
changes observed in the patient that made them suspect the subject is abusing drugs. These changes may
be in his appearance, behavior, mood, or interest.

Added information
1. If subject’s “barkadas” are also known drug abusers in the community.
2. He knows the language of drug dependents.
3. Seeing in his room, books or in his belongings or in his possession empty bottles of cough
syrups, empty medicine foils, MJ sticks or rolling paper.
B. Interview with patient
Inquire regarding the drugs being abused, onset of his drug taking activity, reason for abusing drugs,
how he supports his vice, etc.
3. LABORATORY EXAMINATION
Accurate laboratory examinations cannot be performed by any ordinary chemist since detection of
dangerous drugs requires sophisticated equipment and apparatus, special chemical reagents and most of all,
the specialized technical know-how.
4. PSYCHOLOGICAL EXAMINATION
This phase of drug detection requires the expertise of trained psychologists. Teachers therefore are not
in a position to administer psychological examinations among their students. Psychological examination
findings will correspond to the general findings of a drug prone individual:
- drowsy or lethargic appearance accompanied by scratching and without alcoholic breath, tendency
to giggle excessively at things which others don’t consider funny, and over-active and over
talkative
5. PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTS
a. Intelligence Test – the test is designed to cover a wide variety of mental functions with special
emphasis on adjustment comprehension and reasoning.
b. Personality Test – this type of test is used to evaluate the character and personality traits of an
individual such as his emotional adjustment, interpersonal relation, motivation and attitude.
c. Aptitude Test – this test is to measure the readiness with which the individual increases his
knowledge and improves skills when given the necessary opportunity and training.
d. Interest Test – this is designed to reveal the field of interest that a client will be interested in.
e. Psychiatric Evaluation – it is a process whereby a team of professionals composed of psychiatrists,
psychologists, psychiatric social workers conduct an examination to determine whether or not a
patient is suffering from psychiatric disorder.

Practical Ways of Recognizing the Drug Addict

A drug abuser will do everything possible to conceal his habit. To be able to recognize the outward
signs and symptoms, it is equally important to realize that the drug problems are so complex. Even expert
advice not to judge abruptly an individual taking narcotics drug as it could lead to falsely accusing an innocent
person.
It should also be remembered that a person might have a legitimate reason for possessing a tablets,
syringe and needle (may be a diabetic) having capsules (they may prescribe by doctor). Having the sniffles
and running eyes may due to head cold or an allergy. Unusual or add behavior may not be connected in any
way with drug use.
Based on the lecture of U.S experts doctor of medicine, Forensic chemist at the London International Police
academy usually detect drugs abusers without too much trouble by means of the following:
1. Presence of drug on the person – which he may try to conceal.
2. Presence of equipment for smoking, drinking or injection of drugs.
3. Presence of hypodermic needle marks or tracks on arms and on various parts of the body.
 4. Drug test on blood and Urinalysis
5. Drug intoxication in the absence of alcoholic smell. It is indicated by:
a. dilation or contraction of the pupils
b. unsteady gait and incoherent speech
c. loose mental processes, drowsiness and itching
d. tendency to laugh at trivial
e. Withdrawal symptoms
6. Nalline test indicates an opiate addict.
- A small dose (3 mg.) of nalline is injected into the body of the suspect. The size of the pupil of
the suspect is measured before and after the injection. An addict will show appreciable dilation
of the pupil. The drug has practically no effect on non-addicts.
The General Profile of Drug Abusers

The data may help one in understanding drug abusers in the Philippines.
As to: The Profile
Age Mean age of 26 years (since 1996),
27 yrs (1999)
Sex Ratio of male to female remained 12: 1
Civil Status Single (55.78%)
Married (32.58%)
Separated (4.43%)
Family Size Three to four siblings in the family
Occupation Workers/Employees (42.51%)
Unemployed (21.75%)
Self-Employed (12.58%)
Students (12.16%)
Out-of-School Youth (3.68%)
Educational Attainment High school level (27.77%)
College level (27.07%)
High School Graduate (22.77%)
Economic Status Average monthly income of P5,290
Place of Residence Urban
Duration of Drug Taking More than two years
I.Q Average
Nature of Drug Taking Monodrug use
Drugs of Abuse Shabu; Marijuana

Actual Outward Physical Signs/ Symptoms of Drug Abusers:

The actual profile of an abuser of narcotic drugs may show some of the following manifestations.
1. Admission of the addict himself.
2. Consistently wear long-sleeved shirt or blouses, dark eye-classes unlikely times to hide dilated or
constricted pupils of eyes.
3. Blood spots around elbow areas of blouses shirt or pajamas.
4. Walk, talk and act as if under alcoholic influence.
5. Prolonged period of sleep or lethargy, abnormal sleepless, nervous, jumpy and talkative.
6. School works deteriorates (grades and home works)
7. Work habits, become slip-shod, too many emotional explosions, loss body weight., abnormal bowel
habits, blood-shot eyes.
8. Sloppy in dress and careless in bodily hygiene, inordinate desire for consumption of sweets. Unusual
odor in the house or room (marijuana, hash, or incense)
9. Develop defiant or contemptuous attitudes towards authority (Parents, Teachers, Police, Etc.) constant
demand for ever-increasing amount of money.
10. Takes money from everyone and fails to repay, steel and sells all possible items of value from home or
elsewhere when opportunity comes.
11. Receives or makes numerous phone calls to people who are unknown in the house. Associates only
with people who have the reputation for playing with using drugs.
12. Persistently lies when asked to explain in expected knock on the door.
13. Unrealistic attitudes, having difficult of concentration.

The Personality Profile of a Filipino Drug Abuser

 1. They are of average or above average intelligence
2. They are witty and manipulative
3. They have negative attitude, they demonstrate hostile feelings to the world or to anybody who does
not want to conform to what they want.
4. They are emotionally immature, selfish and demanding.
5. They want immediate gratification of needs and desires.
6. They have low frustration tolerance.
7. Their interest and aptitude are on dramatics, persuasive and musical field in that order.
2. They are depressed and excessively dependent.
3. They are rebellious and have impulsive behavior.
4. They are pleasure seeker and pathologically liars
5. They like to join anti social groups/ delinquent groups.
6. They have difficulty in solving problems.

THE GLOBAL DRUG SITUATION

Drug abuse has become not only a national issue or a problem of just a few countries but it is a clear
and present global danger.
Today, highly entrenched, well-organized drug syndicates are behind this menace. They employ the
most advanced and most sophisticated technology coupled with unlimited financial resources at their
command and disposal. Police agencies around the world, pooling their resources together are more often than
not, the losers in a game of hide-and-seek with the international drug syndicates (Sotto, 1994).
A. The 1st Important Drug Traffic Route
Middle East – discovery, plantation, cultivation, harvest

Turkey - preparation for distribution

Europe - manufacture, synthesis, refine

U.S. – Marketing

B. The 2nd Major Drug Traffic Route

A. Drugs that originates from the Golden Triangle

Burma/Myanmar

Laos Thailand

B. Drugs that originates from the Golden Crescent

- Iran
- Afghanistan
- Pakistan
- India

C. World’s Drug Scene

1. Southeast Asia – the “Golden Triangle” approximately produced 60% of opium in the world, 90% percent of
opium in the eastern part of Asia. It is also the officially acknowledged source of Southeast Asian Heroin.
2. Southwest Asia – the “Golden Crescent” is the major supplier of opium poppy, MJ and Heroin products in
the western part of Asia. It produces at least 85% to 90% of all illicit heroin channeled in the drug
underworld
market.
3. Middle East – the Becka Valley of Lebanon is the biggest producer of cannabis in the Middle East. Lebanon
is
also considered as the transit country for cocaine from South America to European markets.
4. Spain – major transshipment point for international drug traffickers in Europe – known as “the paradise of
drug users in Europe”.
5. South America – Columbia, Peru, Uruguay, and Panama are the sources of all cocaine supply in the world.
6. Morocco – the number one producer of cannabis in the world. (2003 to 2006)
7. Philippines – the major transshipment point for the worldwide distribution of illegal drugs such as
shabu and cocaine from Taiwan and South America. The second world’s supplier of MJ and the drug
paradise of drug abusers in Asia.
8. India – center of the world’s drug map, leading to rapid addiction among its people.
9. Indonesia – Northern Sumatra has traditionally been the main cannabis growing area in Indonesia. Bali
Indonesia is an important transit point for drugs en route to Australia and New Zealand.
10. Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand – the most favorable sites of drug distribution from the “Golden
Triangle” and other parts of Asia.
11. China – the transit route for heroin from “Golden Triangle” to H.K.
12. Hong Kong – the world’s transshipment point of all forms of heroin.
13. Japan – the major consumer of cocaine and shabu from U. S. and Europe.

D. Organized Crime Groups behind the Global Drug Scene

Columbian Medellin Cartel
Founded during the 1980’s by Colombian drug lords in the name of Pablo Escobar Gaviria and drug
bosses Jose Gonzalo Rodriguez Gacha and the top aid cocaine barons Juan David and the Ochoa Brothers.

The Medellin Cartel is reputedly responsible for organizing world’s drug trafficking network. The
Columbian government succeeded in containing the Medellin Cartel, which resulted in the death, surrender,
and arrest of the people behind the organization. This further resulted to the disbandment of the Cartel led to
its downfall.
Cali Cartel
The downfall of the Columbian Medellin Cartel is the rise of the Cali Cartel - the newly emerged
cocaine monopoly. Gilberto Rodriquez Orajuela –Don Chepe - “the chess player” heads the syndicated
organization. Under him, the Cali cartel was considered the most powerful criminal organization in the world.
The cartel produces over 90% of cocaine in the world. Due to this, it was called the best and the
brightest of the modern underworld. “ They are professionals of the highest order, intelligent, efficient,
imaginative, and nearly impenetrable” – US - Drug Enforcement Agency.

The Chinese Triad

The Chinese Triad is also called the Chinese Mafia – the oldest and biggest criminal organization in the
world. It is believed to be the controller of the “Golden Triangle”.

Drug Syndicates in the Philippines

The Binondo-based Chinese syndicate has been identified as the nucleus of the Triad Society, the
Bamboo gang based in Taiwan and the 14K based in Hong Kong. The Bamboo Gang is the influence of the
Green Gang of the Chinese Triad while the 14K is the newest among the triads families established only in
1947.
The most common “modus operandi” by the syndicates – posing as fishermen along Philippine seas,
particularly, the northern provinces of Luzon such as La Union, Ilocos, and Pangasinan where they drop their
loads of shabu to shoreline based members. The syndicates are famously involved in marijuana cultivation and
other drug smuggling including drug manufacture.

THE DANGEROUS DRUGS

A. According to Effects
1. Depressants – those that depress the CNS
2. Stimulants – those that stimulate the CNS
3. Hallucinogens – those that distort perception, mind; alter moods

B. According to Medical Pharmacology

1. Depressants
2. Narcotics
3. Tranquilizers
4. Stimulants
5. Hallucinogens
6. Solvents/Inhalants
The Depressants (Downers)
 These are group of drugs, which suppress vital body functions especially those of the brain or central
nervous system with the resulting impairment of judgment, hearing, speech and muscular coordination. They
dull the minds, slow down body reactions to such an extent that accidental deaths and/or suicides usually
happen. They include the narcotics, barbiturates, tranquilizers, alcohol and other volatile solvents. These
drugs, when taken in, generally decrease both the mental and the physical activities of the body. They cause
depression, relieve pain and induce sedation or sleep and suppress cough.
1. Narcotics - are drugs, which relieve pain and produce profound sleep or stupor. Medically, they are
potent painkillers, cough depressants and as an active component of anti-diarrheal preparations.
Opium and it derivatives like morphine, codeine and heroin, as well as the synthetic opiates,
meperidine and methadone, are classified as narcotics.
2. Opium – derived from a poppy plant – Papaver somniferum popularly known as “gum”, “gamot”,
“kalamay” or “panocha”.
3. Morphine - most commonly used and best used opiate. Effective as a painkiller six times potent
than opium, with a high dependence – producing potential. Morphine exerts action characterized
by analgesia, drowsiness, mood changes, and mental clouding.
4. Heroin – is three to five times more powerful than morphine from which it is derived and the most
addicting opium derivative. With continued use, addiction occurs within 14 days. It may be sniffed
on swallowed but is usually injected in the veins.
2. Codeine – a derivative of morphine, commonly available in cough preparations. These cough
medicines have been widely abused by the young whenever hard narcotics are difficult to obtain.
Withdrawal symptoms are less severe than other drugs.
3. Paregoric – a tincture of opium in combination with camphor. Commonly used as a household
remedy for diarrhea and abdominal pain.
4. Demerol and Methadone – common synthetic drugs with morphine – like effects. Demerol is
widely used as a painkiller in childbirth while methadone is the drug of choice in the withdrawal
treatment of heroin dependents since it relieves the physical craving for heroin.
5. Barbiturates – are drugs used for inducing sleep in persons plagued with anxiety, mental stress,
and insomnia. They are also of value in the treatment of epilepsy and hypertension. They are
available in capsules, pills or tablets, and taken orally or injected.
6. Seconal – commonly used among hospitality girls. Sudden withdrawal from these drugs is even
more dangerous than opiate withdrawal. The dependent develops generalized convulsions and
delirium, which are frequently associated with heart and respiratory failure.
7. Tranquilizers – are drugs that calm and relax and diminish anxiety. They are used in the treatment
of nervous states and some mental disorders without producing sleep.
8. Volatile Solvents – gaseous substances popularly known to abusers as “gas”, “teardrops”.
Examples are plastic glues, hair spray, finger nail polish, lighter fluid, rugby, paint, thinner,
acetone, turpentine gasoline, kerosene, varnishes and other aerosol products. They are inhaled by
the use plastic bags, handkerchief or rags soaked in these chemicals.
9. Alcohol – the king of all drugs with potential for abuse. Most widely used, socially accepted and
most extensively legalized drug throughout the world. In the field of medicine, it is “valuable” as
disinfectant, as an external remedy for reducing high fever among children, and as preservative
and solvent for pharmaceutical preparations like elixirs, spirits and tincture.

The Stimulants (Uppers)

They produce effects opposite to that of depressants. Instead of bringing about relaxation and sleep,
they produce increased mental alertness, wakefulness, reduce hunger, and provide a feeling of well being.
Their medical users include narcolepsy – a condition characterized by an overwhelming desire to sleep.
Abrupt withdrawal of the drug from the heavy abuser can result in a deep and suicidal depression.

1. Amphetamines – used medically for weight reducing in obesity, relief of mild

depression and treatment
2. Cocaine – taken orally, injected or sniffed as to achieve euphoria or an intense feeling
of “highness”.
3. Caffeine – it is present in coffee, tea, chocolate, cola drinks, and some wake-up pills.
2. Shabu/ “poor man’s cocaine” – chemically known as methamphetamine. It is a central nervous
system stimulant and sometimes called “upper” or “speed”. It is white, colorless crystal or
crystalline powder with a bitter numbing taste. It can be taken orally, inhaled (snorted), sniffed
(chasing the dragon) or injected.
3. Nicotine – an active component in tobacco, which acts as a powerfu l stimulant of the central
nervous system. A drop of pure nicotine can easily kill a person.

The Hallucinogens (Psychedelic)

 Consists of a variety of mind-altering drugs, which distort reality, thinking and perceptions of time,
sound, space and sensation. The user experiences hallucination (false perception), which at times can be
strange. His “trips” may be exhilarating or terrifying good or bad. They may dislocate his consciousness and
change his mood, thinking and concept of self.
1. Marijuana – It is the most commonly abused hallucinogen in the Philippines because it can be
grown extensively in the country. Many users choose to smoke marijuana for relaxation in the same
way people drink beer or cocktail at the end of the day. The effects of marijuana include a feeling of
grandeur. It can also produce the opposite effect, a dreamy sensation of time seeming to stretch out.
2. Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD) – This drug is the most powerful of the psychedelics obtained
from ergot, a fungus that attacks rye kernels. LSD is 1, 000 times more powerful than marijuana as
supply, large enough for a trip can be taken from the glue on the flab of an envelope, from the paste
of a postage stamp, or from the hidden areas inside one’s clothes. LSD causes perceptual changes so
that the user sees colors, shapes, or objects more intensely than normal and may have
hallucinations of things that are not real. To him real objects seem to change, buildings seem to be
crackling open, and walls pulsating. He experiences frequent bizarre hallucinations, loss spatial
perceptions, personality diffusion and changes in values. Usually, users perceive distortion of time,
colors, sounds and depth. They experience “scent” music and sounds in “colors”.
3. Peyote – Peyote is derived from the surface part of a small gray brown cactus. Peyote emits a
nauseating odor and its user suffers from nausea. This drug causes no physical dependence and,
therefore, no withdrawal symptoms, although in some cases psychological dependence has been
noted.
4. Mescaline – It is the alkaloid hallucinogen extracted from the peyote cactus and can also be
synthesized in the laboratory. It produces less nausea than peyote and shows effects resembling
those of LSD although milder in nature. One to two hours after the drug is taken in a liquid or
powder form, delusions begin to occur. Optical hallucinations follow one upon another in rapid
succession. These are accompanied by imperfect coordination and perception with a sensation of
impeded motion, and a marked sense that time is still standing. Mescaline does not cause physical
dependence.
5. STP – It is a take-off on the motor oil additive. It is a chemical derivative of mescaline claimed to
produce more violent and longer effects than mescaline dose. Its effects are similar to the nerve gas
used in chemical warfare. It is less potent than LSD although its effects are similar to those of
psychedelics.
6. Psilocybin – This hallucinogenic alkaloid from small Mexican mushrooms are used by Mexican
Indians today. These mushrooms induced nausea, muscular relaxation, mood changes with visions
of bright colors and shapes, and other hallucinations. These effects may last for four to five hours
and later may be followed by depressions, laziness, and complete loss of time and space
perceptions.
7. Morning Glory Seeds – The black and brown seeds of the wild tropical morning glory that are
used to produce hallucinations. The seeds are ground into flour, soaked in cold water, then strained
though a cloth and drunk. They are sold under the names of “heavenly blues”, “flying dancers’,
and “pearly gates”. The active ingredient in the seed is similar to LSD although less potent. The
reactions are likened to those resulting from LSD. Prolonged psychosis is also one of its effects.

COMMONLY ABUSED DRUGS

Drugs that are commonly abused depending on their pharmacological effects may be classified into:
1. Sedatives – drugs which reduce anxiety and excitement such as barbiturates, non-barbiturates,
tranquilizers and alcohol.
2. Stimulants – drugs which increase alertness and activity such as amphetamines, cocaine and
caffeine.
3. Hallucinogens/Psychedelics – drugs which affect sensation, thinking, self-awareness and emotion.
Changes in time and space perception, delusions (false beliefs) and hallucinations) may be mild or
overwhelming, dispensing on dose and quality of the drug. This includes LSD, mescaline and
marijuana.
4. Narcotics – drugs that relieve pain and often induce sleep. The opiates, which are narcotics, include
opium and drugs derived from opium, such as morphine, codeine and heroin.

THE EFFECTS OF DRUG ABUSE

1. PHYSICAL EFFECTS
a. Malnutrition – The life of an addict revolves around drug use. He misses even his regular meals.
He losses appetite and eventually develops malnutrition. Likewise, the drug dependent who has
tried on his own to withdraw may suffer from severe gastrointestinal disturbance that results to
severe dehydration.
 b. Skin Infections and Skin Rashes - Oftentimes the drug abuser neglects his personal hygiene, uses
unsterilized needles and syringes that result in skin infections or even ulceration at the sites of the
needle puncture. Skin rashes may even occur as a side effect or sensitivity reaction to certain drugs
of abuse.
Infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis, bronchitis, bronchial asthma, viral hepatitis, sequelae
of drug abuse. Marijuana smoking can produce physical conditions like chronic bronchitis and asthma.
Physically ill persons, like a tuberculosis individual who has suffered so much from his illness may
resort to drug taking as a temporary measure for relief. A drug abuser, because of his use of
unsterilized paraphernalia, tends to develop lowered resistance and becomes susceptible to various
infections, among them are viral hepatitis, and HIV infections/AIDS.
An individual suffering from arthritis or terminal cancer who experiences acute, unbearable
pains and insomnia is likely to become a drug dependent to opiates or sedatives.

2. PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS
a. Deterioration of personality with impaired emotional maturation.
b. Impairment of adequate mental function.
c. Loss of drive and ambition.
d. Development of psychosis and depression.
e. Loss of interest to study.
f. Laziness, lethargy, boredom and restlessness.
g. Irritability, rebellious attitude.
h. Withdrawn forgetfulness.
3. SOCIAL EFFECTS
a. Deterioration of interpersonal relationship and development of conflict with authority.
b. Leads to crime.
c. Social maladjustment; loss of desire to work, study and participate in activities or to face
challenges.
4. MENTAL EFFECTS

a. Adverse effect on the central nervous system. Regular use or injection of large doses of a
substance reduces the activity of the brain and depresses the central nervous system. The drug
dependent then manifests changes in his mind and behavior that are undesirable by people in
his environment.
b. Deterioration of the mind.

The dependent is a “mental invalid” in the sense that drugs can manipulate him, make him lose his
power, and prod him to behave contrary to what he usually think is right. These drugs are essentially reality
modifiers, which create a masked sense of well being by either dulling or distorting sensory perceptions and
providing a temporary means of escape from personal difficulties, either real or imaginary. They can reduce or
accelerate activity to create indifference, depressive mood, or carelessness.
As a result, the abuser’s mind deteriorates gradually. In other instances, he abruptly loses interest and
motivation in the pursuit of achievement and constructive goals.
Instead of providing him relaxation and escape from discomfort, drug, alcohol and tranquilizers may
blur his attempts to come to terms with reality. His character becomes weak and inadequate in coping with his
problems.

5. ECONOMIC EFFECTS
a. Inability to hold stable job.
It is impossible for a drug abuser to hold a steady job since he spends all his time and money on drugs.
If he does not have a regular job, he and his friends steal to raise money. If he has one, he would be unable to
concentrate since he would be either over-stimulated or lazy and drowsy.
b. Dependence on family resources.
Instead of contributing to the economic stability of the family, a dependent becomes an economic
burden. Besides depending on the family for his basic necessities, he also has to rely on the family resources to
provide him money for the support of his expensive habit.
c. Accidents in industry.
 In a state of agitation or dullness of the mind as a result of the drug he has taken, the dependent
becomes careless and loses concentration on his job. Consequently, an accident may occur which may
adversely affect both drug abuser and his co-workers.

SYMPTOMS OF ABUSE ON THE DANGEROUS DRUGS

COMMON EFFECTS/SYMPTOMS OF DRUG ABUSE

Effects Downers Uppers (stimulants) Psychedelics (hallucinogens)
(depressants)
Changes in the eyes Pupils constricted Dilated Marijuana – no change in pupils but the
conjunctivae are red because of dilation of
the vessels of the eyes. Other hallucinogens
– pupils are dilated.
Locomotive changes Decrease Increase None

Speech Underproductive, Talkative, Loquacious None

Under-talkative with flight of ideas
Hallucination None None Present usually in visual field
Delusion None Usually encountered Sometimes encountered
Vital signs i.e.temperature, Low High Usually no change
blood pressure, pulse rate,
respiratory rate
1. DEPRESSANTS
a. Narcotics
1. lethargy, drowsiness
2. pupils are constricted and fail to respond to light
3. inhaling heroin in powder form leaves traces of white powder around nostrils causing redness
4. injecting heroin leaves scars, usually on the inner surface of the arms and elbows although user
may inject drug in the body where needle marks will not be seen readily
5. user often leaves syringes, bent spoons, bottle caps, eye droppers, cotton and needles in lockers
at school or hidden at home
6. user scratches self frequently
7. loss if appetite
8. sniffles, running nose, red watery eyes, coughing which disappears when user gets a “fix”

b. Barbiturates/Tranquilizers
1. symptoms of alcohol intoxication without odor or alcohol on breath
2. staggering or stumbling
3. falling asleep unexplainably
4. drowsiness, may appear disoriented
5. lack of interest in school and family activities

c. Volatile Solvents
1. odor of substance on breath and clothes
2. excessive nasal secretions, watering of eyes
3. poor muscular control
4. increased preference for being with a group rather than being alone
5. plastic or paper bags or rags, containing dry plastic cement or other solvent, found at home or
in locker at school or at work
6. slurred speech

2. STIMULANTS
a. Amphetamines/Cocaine/Speed/Bunnies/Ups

1. pupils may be dilated

2. mouth and nose dry, bad breath; licks lips frequently
3. goes long periods without eating or sleeping; nervous; has difficulty sitting still
4. chain smoking
5. if injecting drug, user may have hidden eye droppers and needles among possessions

b. Shabu
1. produces elevations of mood, heightened alertness and increased energy
 2. some individuals may become anxious, irritable or loquacious
3. causes decreased appetite and insomnia

3. HALLUCINOGENS
a. Marijuana
1. may appear animated with rapid, loud talking and bursts of laughter
2. sleepy or stuporous
3. pupils are dilated
4. odor(similar to burnt rope) on clothing or breath
5. remnants of marijuana, either loose or in partially smoked “joints” in clothing or possessions

b. LSD/STP/DMT/THC
1. user usually sits or reclines quietly in a dream or trance – like state
2. user may become fearful and experience a degree of terror which makes him attempt to escape
from his group
3. senses of sight, hearing, touch, body image and time are distorted
4. mood and behavior are affected, the manner depending upon emotional and environmental
condition of the user

INDIVIDUAL EFFECTS OF THE DANGEROUS DRUGS

1. DEPRESSANTS
a. Death due to respiratory arrest.
b. In large doses can cause respiratory depression and coma, the combination of depressants and alcohol
can multiply the effect of the drugs, thereby multiplying the risks.
c. Babies born to mothers who abuse depressants during pregnancy may be physically dependent on the
drug and show withdrawal symptom shortly after they are born. Birth defects and behavioral problems
may also result.

2. STIMULANTS
a. Death due to infections, high blood pressures.
b. Extremely high doses can cause a rapid or irregular heartbeat, tremors, loss of coordination, and even
physical collapse.
Shabu
a. Overdosage leads to chest pains, hypertension, acute psychotic reaction, convulsions and death
due to cardiac arrest
b. Due to the appetite suppressing effects of shabu, pregnant mother may become malnourished. This
may affect the nutritional needs of the baby.
c. Babies born to shabu-using women show sever emotional disturbances.

3. HALLUCINOGENS
Marijuana
a. Can lead to serious mental changes (psychoses) like insanity, suicidal and/or homicidal tendencies
b. Poor impulse control.
c. Damage to chromosomes, hence, affecting potentially the offspring.

Effects On The Body

a. Brain – impairs skills for driving cars and operating machinery, interferes with memory, and
intellect.
b. Eyes – lowers pressure inside eye ball
c. Heart – raises heart rate, potentially hazardous to heart patients
d. Lungs – impairs lung functions
e. Reproductive Organ – decreases sex hormones and sperm production in males
f. Immune System – impairs immunity of the body against infection and cancer

APPROACHES TO THE DRUG PROBLEM

The present nature and extent of drug abuse and misuse among the youth constitutes one of the
gravest health problems facing the nation and the world today. Public concern about drug abuse is focused not
only on drugs that can be abused but also on the individual who misuses them.
 Today, there are many measures undertaken by both the private and the government sectors in the
fight against drug abuse as a disease of society. This includes the major approaches as follows:

A. The Law Enforcement Approach

B. The Treatment and Rehabilitation Approach
C. The Educational Approach
D. The International Efforts Against Drug Abuse

THE LAW ENFORCEMENT APPROACH

The Philippine government considers drug abuse as a multi-faceted problem that threatens the health
and well being of the Filipinos across all levels of society. The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 or
Republic Act No. 9165 was enacted to add more teeth on the government response to the ongoing problem on
drug abuse in the country. This is the major arm of the government in its law enforcement approaches that
derived from the supply and demand reduction strategies.

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9165: Important Features

R.A. 9165 – COMPREHENSIVE DANGEROUS DRUGS ACT OF 2002 (Approved on June 7, 2002 -
Effective July 4, 2002)

What is Dangerous Drug under this law?

Includes those listed in the schedules annexed to the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, as
amended by the 1972 Protocol, and the schedules annexed to the 1971 Single Convention on Psychotropic
Substances (Art 1, Sec. 3).

Ex. MMDA – Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (Ecstacy), Tetrahydrocannabinol (MJ); Mescaline

(Peyote)
What are the Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemicals?

Include those listed in Tables I and II of the 1988 UN Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic
Drugs and Psychotrophic Substances (Art 1, Sec 3)

Ex. Table 1 – Acetic Anhydride, N- Acetyl Anthranilic Acid, Epedrine, Ergometrine, Lysergic Acid
Table 2 – Acetone, Ethyl Ether, Hydrochloric Acid, Sulfuric Acid, etc .

NOTE:
Under RA 6425 (Dangerous Drugs Act of 1972), Dangerous drugs refers to the Prohibited drugs,
Regulated drugs and Volatile substances.
Prohibited Drugs – ex. Opium and its derivatives, Cocaine and its derivatives, Hallucinogen drugs like
MJ, LSD, and Mescaline
Regulated drugs – ex. Barbiturates, Amphetamines, Tranquillizers
Volatile Substances – ex. rugby, paints, thinner, glue, gasoline

Table 8. What are the Unlawful Acts and Penalties?

Unlawful Acts Penalty

Importation of Dangerous drugs and/or Controlled Life Imprisonment to Death and a fine ranging from
Precursors and Essential Chemicals (sec. 4) P500, 000 to P10 Million
Sale, Trading, Administration, Dispensation, Life Imprisonment to Death and a fine ranging from
Delivery, Distribution and transportation of P500, 000 to P10 Million
Dangerous Drugs and/or Controlled Precursors
and Essential Chemicals (sec. 5)
Maintenance of a Den, Dive or Resort where Life Imprisonment to Death and a fine ranging from
dangerous drugs are used or sold in any form (sec. P500, 000 to P10 Million
6)
Being an employee or visitor of a den, dive or resort Imprisonment ranging from 12 yrs and 1 day to 20
(sec. 7) yrs and a fine ranging from P100, 000 to P500, 000.
Manufacture of dangerous Drugs and/or Life Imprisonment to Death and a fine ranging from
Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemicals (sec. P500, 000 to P10 Million
8)
Illegal Chemical Diversion of Controlled Precursors Imprisonment ranging from 12 yrs and 1 day to 20
 and Essential Chemicals (sec. 9) yrs and a fine ranging from P100, 000 to P500, 000.
Manufacture or Delivery of Equipment, Instrument, Imprisonment ranging from 12 yrs and 1 day to 20
Apparatus and other Paraphernalia for Dangerous yrs and a fine ranging from P100, 000 to P500, 000.
Drugs and/or Controlled Precursors and Essential
Chemicals (sec. 10)
Possession of Dangerous Drugs Life Imprisonment to Death and a fine ranging from
(sec. 11) P500, 000 to P10 Million

Possession of Equipment, Instrument, Apparatus Imprisonment ranging from 6 mos and 1 day to 4 yrs
and other Paraphernalia for Dangerous Drugs and a fine ranging from P10, 000 to P50, 000
(sec. 12)
Possession of dangerous Drugs during Parties, The maximum penalties provided for Sec. 11.
Social Gatherings or Meetings (sec. 13), and
Possession of Equipment, Instrument, Apparatus
and other Paraphernalia for Dangerous Drugs
during Parties, Social Gatherings or Meetings (sec.
14)
Use of Dangerous Drugs (sec. 15) Minimum 6 mos rehabilitation (1st offense),
Imprisonment ranging from 6 yrs and 1 day to 12 yrs
and a fine ranging from P50,000 to P200, 000 (2 nd
Offense)

NOTE:
Section 15 shall not be applicable where the person tested is also found to have in his/her possession
such quantity of any dangerous drug provided in sec.11, in which case the penalty provided in sec. 11 shall
apply.

Cultivation of Plants classified as dangerous Life Imprisonment to Death and a fine ranging from
drugs or are sources thereof (sec. 16) P500, 000 to P10 Million
Failure to comply with the maintenance and Imprisonment ranging from 1 yr and 1 day to 6 yrs and
keeping of the original records of transaction on a fine ranging from P10, 000 to P50, 000
any dangerous drugs and/or controlled Plus revocation of license to practice profession.
precursors and Essential Chemicals on the part of
practioners, manufacturers, wholesalers,
importers, distributors, dealers, or retailers (sec.
17)
Unnecessary Prescription of Dangerous Drugs Imprisonment ranging from 12 yrs and 1 day to 20 yrs
(sec. 18) and a fine ranging from P100, 000 to P500, 000.
Plus revocation of license to practice profession
Unlawful Prescription of Dangerous Drugs Life imprisonment to Death and a fine ranging from
(sec.19) P500, 000 to 10 Million pesos

NOTE:
The Possession of Dangerous drugs in the following quantities, regardless of degree of purity: 10 grams
or more of opium; morphine; heroin; cocaine; MJ resin; 10 grams or more of MMDA, LSD and similar
dangerous drugs; 50 grams or more of “shabu”/ Methamphetamine Hydrochloride; 500 grams or more of
Marijuana.
If the quantity involved is less than the foregoing, the penalties shall be graduated as follows:
1. Life imprisonment and a fine ranging from P400, 000 to P500, 000 if “shabu” is 10 grams or more but
less than 50 grams;
2. Imprisonment of 20 yrs and 1 day to Life imprisonment and a fine ranging from P400, 000 to P500,
000 if the quantities of dangerous drugs are 5 grams or more but less than 10 grams of opium, morphine,
heroin, cocaine, mj resin, shabu, MMDA, and 300 grams or more but less than 500 grams of marijuana
3. Imprisonment of 12 yrs and 1 day to 20 yrs and a fine ranging from P300, 000 to P400, 000 if the
quantities of dangerous drugs are less than 5 grams of opium, morphine, heroin, cocaine, mj resin, shabu,
MMDA, and less than 300 grams of marijuana.
The Unlawful Acts Punishable by Death Penalty
(Prior to the abolition of Death Penalty)

1. Importation or bringing into the Philippines of dangerous drugs using diplomatic passport or facilities
or any means involving his/her official status to facilitate unlawful entry of the same (sec 4, Art II).
 2. Upon any person who organizes, manages or acts as “financiers” of any of the activities involving
dangerous drugs (sec 4, 5, 6, 8 Art II).
3. Sale, Trading, Administration, Dispensation, Delivery, Distribution and transportation of Dangerous
Drugs and/or Controlled Precursors and Essential Chemicals with in 100 meters from the school (sec 5,
Art II).
4. Drugs pushers who use minors or mentally incapacitated individuals as runners, couriers and
messengers or in any other capacity directly connected to the dangerous drug trade (sec 5, Art II).
5. If the victim of the offense is a minor or mentally incapacitated individual, or should a dangerous drug
and/or controlled precursors and essential chemical involved in the offense be the proximate cause of
death of the victim (sec 5, Art II).
6. When dangerous drug is administered, delivered or sold to a minor who is allowed to use the same in
such a place (sec 6, Art II).
7. Upon any person who uses a minor or mentally incapacitated individual to deliver equipment,
instrument, apparatus and other paraphernalia for dangerous drugs (sec. 10, Art II).
8. Possession of dangerous Drugs during Parties, Social Gatherings or Meetings (sec. 13), and Possession
of Equipment, Instrument, Apparatus and other Paraphernalia for Dangerous Drugs during Parties,
Social Gatherings or Meetings (sec. 14)

What is the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB)?

The DDB is the policy-making body and strategy-making body in the planning and formulation of
policies and programs on drug prevention and control. (under the Office of the President) (sec. 77, Art IX)
Composition: 17 members (3 as permanent, 12 as ex-officio, 2 regular members)(sec. 78, Art IX)

3 permanent members: to be appointed by the President, one to be the Chairman.

12 ex officio members:
Secretary of DOJ, DOH, DND, DOF, DOLE, DILG, DSWD, DFA, and DepEd, Chairman of CHED,
NYC, and the Dir.Gen of PDEA.

2 regular members: President of the IBP, and the Pres/Chaiman of an NGO involved in a dangerous
drug campaign to be appointed by the President.

The NBI Director the Chief of the PNP – permanent consultant of the Board.

What are the Powers and Duties of the DDB?

(sec. 81, Art IX)
1. Formulation of Drug Prevention and Control Strategy,
2. Promulgation of Rules and Regulation to carry out the purposes of this Act,
3. Conduct policy studies and researches,
4. Develop educational programs and info drive,
5. Conduct continuing seminars and consultations,
6. Design special training,
7. Coordination with agencies for community service programs,
8. Maintain international networking.
What is the PDEA?
PDEA means Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.

It is the implementing arm of the DDB and responsible for the efficient and effective law enforcement
of all the provisions on any dangerous drugs and/ or precursors and essential chemicals.

Head: Director General – appointed by the President

Assisted By: 2 Deputies Director General (one for Admin, another for Opns) – appointed by the
President (sec. 82, Art IX).

PDEA Operating Units:

It absorbed the NDLE-PCC (created under E.O. 61), NARCOM of the PNP, Narcotics Division of the
NBI, and the Customs Narcotics Interdiction Unit (sec. 86, Art IX).
What are the Powers and Functions of the PDEA?
(sec. 84, Art IX)
1. Cause the effective and efficient implementation of the national drug control strategy,
2. Enforcement of the provisions of Art II of this Act,
 3. Undertake investigation, make arrest and apprehension of violators and seizure and confiscation of
dangerous drugs,
4. Establish forensic laboratories,
5. Filing of appropriate drug cases,
6. Conduct eradication programs,
7. Maintain a national drug intelligence system,
8. Close coordination with local and international drug agencies.

Other Features of R.A 9165

1. In the revised law, importation of any illegal drug, regardless of quantity and purity or any part
therefrom even for floral, decorative and culinary purposes is punishable with life imprisonment to
death and a fine ranging from P500, 000 to P10 million.
2. The trading, administration, dispensation, delivery, distribution, and transportation of dangerous
drugs is also punishable by life imprisonment to death and a fine ranging from P500, 000 to P10
million.
3. Any person who shall sell, trade, administer, dispense, deliver, give away to another or distribute,
dispatch in transit or transport any dangerous drugs regardless of quantity and purity shall be
punished with life imprisonment to death and a fine ranging from P500, 000 to P10 million.
 But if the sale, administration, delivery, distribution or transportation of any of these
illegal drugs transpires with in 100 meters from any school, the maximum penalty shall
be imposed.
 Pushers who use minors or mentally incapacitated individuals as runners, couriers, and
messengers or in dangerous drug transactions shall also be meted with the maximum
penalty.
 A penalty of 12 yrs to 20 yrs imprisonment shall be imposed on financiers, coddlers, and
managers of the illegal activity.
4. The law also penalizes anybody found in possession of any item or paraphernalia used to administer,
produce, cultivate, propagate, harvest, compound, convert, process, pack, store, contain or conceal
illegal drugs with an imprisonment of 12 yrs to 20 yrs and a fine of P100, 000 to P500, 000.
5. Owners of resorts, dives, establishments, and other places where illegal drugs are administered is
deemed liable under this new law, the same shall be confiscated and escheated in favor of the
government.
6. Any person who shall be convicted of violation of this new law, regardless of the quantity of the drugs
and the penalty imposed by the court shall not be allowed to avail the privilege provisions of the
Probation Law (P.D. 968).

(sec.58, Art VIII) Filing of charges against a drug dependent for confinement and rehabilitation under
voluntary submission program can be made:
1. second commitment to the center
2. upon recommendation of the DDB
3. may be charge for violation of sec. 15
4. if convicted – confinement and rehabilitation

Parents, spouse or guardian who refuses to cooperate with the Board or any concerned agency in the treatment
and rehabilitation of a drug dependent may be cited for Contempt of Court (sec. 73, Art VIII).
Anti-Drug Drives and Operational Concepts

The Operational Plans (OPLANS) against the Drug Problem are:

1. Oplan Thunderbolt I –operation to create impact to the underworld
2. Oplan Thunderbolt II –operations to neutralize suspected illegal drug laboratories
3. Oplan Thunderbolt III – Operations for the neutralization of big time drug pushers’ drug dealers and
drug lords.
4. Oplan Iceberg – Special operations team in selected drug prone areas in order to get rid of illegal drug
activities in the area.
5. Oplan Hunter – operations against suspected military and police personnel who are engage in illegal
drug activities.
6. Oplan Mercurion – Operations against drug stores, which are violating existing regulations on the scale
of regulated drugs in coordination with the DDB, DOH and BFAD.
7. Oplan Tornado – Operations in drug notorious and high profile places.
 8. Oplan Greengold – nation wide MJ eradication operations in coordination with the local governments
and NGO’s.
9. Oplan Sagip-Yagit – A civic program initiated by NGO’s and local government offices to help eradicate
drug syndicates involving street children as drug conduit.
10. Oplan Banat – the newest operational plan against drug abuse focused in the barangay level in
cooperation with barangay officials.
11. Oplan Athena – operation conducted to neutralize the 14k, the Bamboo gang and other local organized
crimes groups involved in illegal drug trafficking.
12. Oplan Cyclops – operations against Chinese triad members involved in the illegal drug operations
particularly Methamphetamine Hydrocloride.

In the conduct of anti-drug operations, the following must be strictly considered:

1. Respect for Human Rights (Sec. 11, Art. 2, Phil. Constitution)
2. Respect for right of the people to due process and equal protection (Sec. 1, Art. 3, Phil. Constitution)
3. Respect of Right of the people against unreasonable search and seizure. (Sec. 2, Art. 3, Phil.
Constitution).
4. Respect for right of the people to privacy of communication (Sec. 3, Art. 3, Phil. Constitution).
5. Respect for constitutional rights of the accused undergoing custodial investigation (RA 7438), (Sec. 12,
Art. 3, Phil. Constitution)
6. Respect for the statutory rights of the accused undergoing custodial investigation under RA 7438.

The Principles of Drug Operations are:

1. Knowledge on circumstances on when to use necessary force (Art. 11, Chapter 3, RPC).
2. Knowledge on the statutory provisions on arrest (Rule 113, Rules on Criminal Procedures).
3. Knowledge on the administrative guidelines on arrest, search and seizure.
4. The Miranda Doctrine (384 U.S. 346)
5. Warrantless Search and Search incidental to lawful arrest (Rule 126, Rules on Criminal Procedure).