DUTERTE DOUBTS DRUG USERS WOULD REFORM

DAVAO City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte Thursday expressed doubt over the
sincerity of illegal drug pushers and users who voluntarily surrendered to
authorities for fear of being the next targets of anti-drug vigilante group
Davao Death Squad (DDS).

"Dili nako mo-tuo anang mo-surrender kay mobalik gihapon na sila sa ilahang
dating bisyo sa ilegal nga droga," Duterte said during a press conference
at the Task Force Davao office.

Amid the spate of summary executions of theft and drug suspects that
already reached 16, a total of 43 suspected drug pushers and users flocked
to various police stations in the city since June 24 to voluntarily surrender.

Of the total, 35 were self-confessed drug pushers and users who yielded to
the Sasa Police station.

Another eight drivers of L300 passenger vans plying the Calinan route have
also voluntarily submitted themselves before the Calinan Police precinct
Thursday to clear their names on their alleged involvement in illegal drugs
activities.

They, however, tested negative for drug use when given a drug test.

Duterte said 90 percent of those who underwent rehabilitation would still
revert to selling and using illegal drugs. He otherwise advised illegal
drug pushers and users to leave the city if they cannot stop their activity.

"Delikado na gyud kaayo ang Davao City para sa mga nahilambigit sa ginadili
nga droga kay naa'y mga tao nga ginabutang sa ilahang kamot ang hustisya,"
he said.

But he was quick to add he does not condone the summary executions of theft
and drug suspects.

Duterte appealed to Dabawenyos to give him time to resolve summary
executions that have been plaguing in the city.

"Hatagi ko ninyo ug panahon pagsulbad sa pagpamatay," he said.

Duterte also encouraged those who voluntarily surrendered to the police to
report regularly at the police stations so they will be monitored.

"Kadtong nagrabihan sa illegal nga droga kay ibutang na sa rehabilation
center," Duterte said.