WHEREAS, there is an acknowledged need for stricter law enforcement, prosecution and apprehension of all drug traffickers, whether national or international;

WHEREAS, the Philippines continues to be one of the major transshipment points for international drug syndicates due to its easily penetrable airports. seaports and long irregular coastline which provide ideal entry- and exit points for drug smuggling;

WHEREAS, there is an urgent need to sharpen the tools that the government can use to finally eradicate the drug menace.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, FIDEL V. RAMOS, President of the Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by Section 17, Chapter 5, Title I, Book III of the Administrative Code of 1987, do hereby designate the Secretary of Justice as the Acting Chairman of the Dangerous Drugs Board. The Secretary of Health or her representative shall be the Vice-Chair thereof.

Adopted: 12 November 1996


By the President:

(SGD.) RUBEN D. TORRES
Executive Secretary