Malacañang on Monday expressed “concern” about the reported killing of persons linked to illegal drugs in the country since President Duterte won the May 9 balloting.

Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said the President was aware of the recent spate of killings in law enforcement operations.

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“I don’t know if the term is wary or alarmed, but I’m sure it’s a concern because… it may be showing the depth of the drug menace in the society,” Abella told a press briefing in Malacañang.

He said the President was also aware that hundreds of drug dependents and street-level drug pushers were turning themselves in to authorities out of fear of ending up dead.

“I’m sure his ear is on the ground,” he said. “I believe there are plans for setting up regional rehabilitation centers (for drug addicts who surrendered).”

Asked if the President was condoning the attacks on suspected drug personalities, he said: “I don’t know if the term is condoning, but he has a position on (the issue of illegal) drugs. He is anti-drugs and he is out to exert firm pressure against (illegal) drugs.”

Known for his foul mouth and uncouth behavior, Duterte anchored his campaign on a promise to end criminality and the proliferation of illegal drugs within the first six months of his administration./rga

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