In a bid to intensify the fight against illegal drugs, the Provincial Government of Davao Oriental has launched the Davao Oriental Seaport Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Taskforce (DOSIDIT). The initiative aims to curb drug smuggling activities at the province’s seaports, particularly in Mati City.
Through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), various government agencies have united to prevent the entry and exit of illegal drugs in the province. The signing ceremony was attended by representatives from key agencies, including Provincial Administrator Atty. Alejandro Aquino, who represented Governor Niño Sotero L. Uy, Mati City Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat, officials from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), law enforcement, military, and maritime authorities.
DOSIDIT’s primary objective is to enhance port security and intelligence-sharing among agencies to prevent the trafficking of illegal substances. The task force will implement coordinated anti-drug operations, intelligence gathering, and specialized training for its members.
Governor Uy, who serves as the Task Force Chair, underscored the importance of inter-agency cooperation in addressing security challenges in the province. Meanwhile, Mayor Rabat, the Co-Chair of the task force, reaffirmed the city’s commitment by stating, “Our city will not tolerate any form of illegal drug trade.”
Agencies Involved in DOSIDIT:
Law Enforcement and Intelligence Units: PDEA, Philippine National Police (PNP), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA). Maritime and Port Authorities: Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), Bureau of Customs (BOC), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA). Military Forces: Philippine Navy, 701st Infantry Brigade, 67th Infantry Battalion, and 66th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army. Local Government Units: Provincial Government of Davao Oriental and the City Government of Mati.
The DOSIDIT Operations Center will be based at the Balay Silangan Compound in Mati City, serving as the command hub for interdiction activities, intelligence coordination, and real-time collaboration among agencies.
Key Objectives of the MOU:
- Strengthening port and coastal security to combat drug trafficking.
- Conducting controlled delivery operations to dismantle drug syndicates.
- Regular training and capability enhancement for personnel.
- Strengthening coordination with national and international agencies to intensify the campaign against drug trafficking.
Each agency will play a critical role according to its mandate. The PDEA will lead operations and intelligence coordination, while the PNP and AFP will provide security and manpower for checkpoints and interdiction efforts.
With the establishment of DOSIDIT, Davao Oriental reinforces its stance against illegal drugs, ensuring that seaports remain protected from criminal elements. This initiative aligns with the broader national anti-drug campaign and regional security efforts.
The launch of DOSIDIT marks a significant step by local leadership and law enforcement agencies in safeguarding the people of Davao Oriental from the dangers posed by illegal drugs.