MANILA – The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and Grab Philippines have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to suppress the emerging trend of drug trafficking in the country using the transport and delivery services.
In a statement on Wednesday, PDEA Director General Wilkins Villanueva and Sherielysse Bonifacio, Public Affairs Grab Philippines, signed the MOA at the PDEA National Headquarters in Quezon City.
Villanueva said the MOA aims to contain the emerging trend where, in some instances, accredited Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS) and delivery service drivers have unknowingly became conduits of drug trade by accepting transport and delivery services from persons engaged in illegal drug trafficking
“The signing of the agreement is an opportunity for PDEA and Grab Philippines to formally strengthen their partnership in the fight against illegal drug trafficking, and closer coordination and cooperation in the interception of illegal drugs," Villanueva said.
Grab Philippines said it supports PDEA’s campaign against illegal drugs by helping interdict and prevent the transport and delivery of packages containing illegal drugs and controlled precursors and essential chemicals, or CPECs, using TNVS and delivery services.
It will also assist PDEA in the investigation on reports on suspected delivery packages, design mechanisms where the items for delivery are properly recorded and visible to the driver.
Grab will also implement policies for a drug-free workplace in its premises, as well as ensure that the accredited delivery service drivers are not involved in illegal drug activities. (PR)
