Drugs - it has destroyed so many families and it has reached the level of causing a socialdysfunction of the majority of our countrymen. You know, when a father goes down becauseof drugs, the entire family becomes dysfunctional.

What happens now if this contamination will go on and on? What will happen to the nextgeneration? What will happen now if we allow drugs to destroy not only a few but many?Then you have a generation -- a fractured generation, and a problem to be solved by the nextgeneration. Think of your grandchild and think of your son or daughter.

I therefore assure you that this administration remains relentless in its war against illegaldrugs, criminality, corruption, terrorism and environmental degradation. We will continue topersevere in this aspiration because we are committed in fostering a better and brighterfuture for the Filipino children.

President RODRIGO ROA DUTERTEDuring the National Awarding Ceremony of the Presidential Award

for Child-Friendly Municipalities and Cities (PACFMC)Delivered at Rizal Hall, Malacañan Palace

28 November 2019

List of AcronymsiForeword: DDB Chairpersonii

INTRODUCTION

Objectives6

Sampling Design6

Data Gathering Method6

Sample Size by Region7

DETAILEDRESEARCHFINDINGSRespondent Profile9

Sex9

Age9

Delimitations of the Survey8

Contents

Educational Attainment9

Foreword: I-Metrics AsiaPresident and CEO

iv

Executive Summary1

SocioeconomicClassification

9

Foreword: Civil RegistrarGeneral

iii

Foreword: DSWD Secretaryv

Dangerous DrugsSubstances Ever Tried

11

Lifetime User PrevalenceRate by Sex

12

Lifetime User PrevalenceRate by Age Group

12

Lifetime User PrevalenceRate by EducationalAttainment

13

Reasons for TryingDangerous Drugs/Substances

11

Current User Prevalence14

Current User PrevalenceRate

14

Estimated Number ofCurrent Users by Region

14

Average Age When FirstTried Using DangerousDrugs/Substances

11

Estimated Number ofLifetime Users by Region

10

Lifetime User PrevalenceRate by SocioeconomicClass

13

Lifetime User Prevalence10

Lifetime User PrevalenceRate

10

Current User PrevalenceRate by Sex

15

Awareness of DangerousDrugs/ Substances andSources of Awareness

17

Top-of-Mind Recall ofDangerous Drugs/Substances

17

Top Ten Sources ofAwareness

17

Perceived NegativeEffects of Drug Use

18

Perception on People WhoWould be Most Helpful forThose Who Use DangerousDrugs/Substances

18

Public Perceptions AboutDrug Use

18

Perception on Ways toAvoid Using DangerousDrugs/Substances

19

Risky Behavior: Smoking20

Percentage of FilipinosAged 10-69 Years WhoHave Tried Smoking

20

Age When StartedSmoking

20

Current User PrevalenceRate by EducationalAttainment

16

Current User PrevalenceRate by SocioeconomicClass

16

Current User PrevalenceRate by Age Group

15

Risky Behavior: AlcoholDrinking

21

Percentage of FilipinosAged 10-69 Years WhoHave Tried AlcoholDrinking

21

Age When Started AlcoholDrinking

21

Reasons for TryingAlcohol Drinking

22

Percentage of Triers WhoContinue to Take AlcoholicDrinks

22

Reasons for Continuing toTake Alcoholic Drinks

22

The Link Between and AmongSmoking, Alcohol Drinking,and Trying Drugs

23

Statistical Tools Used toLook into theInterrelationship of theThree Risky Behaviors

23

Smoking, Drinking, andTrying Drugs Link

23

Percentage of Triers WhoContinue to Smoke

20

Reasons for Continuing toSmoke

21

Reasons for Trying toSmoke

20

Youth Smoking, Drinking,and Drug Use

25

Government's Anti-DrugCampaign

26

Public Awareness andReception of theGovernment's Anti-DrugCampaign

26

Awareness of SpecificAnti-Drug Programs

26

CONCLUSIONS

RECOMMENDATIONS

Conclusions27

Recommendations28

Youth Smoking and DrugUse

25

Youth Drinking and DrugUse

25

Progression of RiskyBehavior

24

4Ps - Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino ProgramBARMM - Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim MindanaoBOC - Bureau of CustomsCAPI - Computer-Assisted Personal InterviewCAR - Cordillera Autonomous RegionCHAID - Chi-squared Automatic Interaction DetectionCSO/s - Civil Society Organization/sDDB - Dangerous Drugs BoardDepEd - Department of EducationDOF - Department of FinanceDILG - Department of the Interior and Local GovernmentDOH - Department of HealthDSWD - Department of Social Welfare and DevelopmentFDAPP - Family Drug Abuse Prevention ProgramLGUs - Local Government Unit/sMOE - Margin of ErrorNCR - National Capital RegionNGO/s - Non-Government Organization/sNS - Not specifiedPADS - Philippine Anti-Illegal Drugs StrategyPAPI - Paper and Pen InterviewPO/s - Private Organization/sPSA - Philippine Statistics AuthorityPWUDs - Persons Who Use DrugsSDEC - Special Drug Education CenterWHO - World Health Organization

List ofAcronyms

i

The Dangerous Drugs Board banks onthe ideals of objective analysis andthorough research to ensure thatpolicies and strategies remain effective,responsive and relevant.

The 2019 National Household Surveyon the Patterns and Trends of DrugAbuse serves as a benchmark for data-gathering initiatives and lays down dataand information that will help usunderstand the context of the drugproblem and enable us to propose andimplement necessary actions.

Results of the research tells us that theprograms in place under the PhilippineAnti-Illegal Drugs Strategy are working,as drug use prevalence in 2019 wentdown and public awareness andapproval of the government's campaignwere recorded at high rates.

The survey also gave light on some riskybehaviors that trigger one to use andcontinue to use drugs. An importantinformation that will lead us to focus onprotecting the most vulnerablepopulations.

We urge all our partners andstakeholders to make the best use ofthe rich data and information from the2019 Drug Survey to strengthen anti-drug programs and initiatives towardsdrug-free communities by 2022.

Secretary CATALINO S. CUYChairperson

Dangerous Drugs Board

Foreword

ii

collection, the Philippine StatisticsAuthority (PSA) appreciates institutionsthat value the use of statistics in order tomaterialize their respective mandates anduphold good governance in the country.

Together with all government agencies andinstitutions under Executive Order 66,Series of 2018, PSA would like to expressour support to the publication of the 2019Drug Survey released by DDB.

It is eminent that the gathered data in thesurvey will be put to good use by DDB'sstakeholders, especially policy-makers asevidence-based data for decision makingand social protection programs.

We share the agency's campaign in fightingagainst drugs as we take pride inconforming with the set standards inconducting government statisticalactivities. We believe in DDB and itscontribution to the development of citizen-centered policies for Filipinos especially forthe government's campaign against drugs.

Undersecretary DENNIS S. MAPA, Ph.D.National Statistician

and Civil Registrar GeneralPhilippine Statistics Authority

"Paglilingkod para panatilihin ang publiko naligtas mula sa epekto ng pinagbabawal nagamot," the battlecry of the DangerousDrugs Board (DDB) under the Office of thePresident. Guided by this belief, DDBcontinues to formulate policies andprograms upholding the development ofthe national drug abuse prevention andcontrol strategy. One of its strategies is todetermine the lifetime and current userprevalence rates, patterns, and trends ofdrug abuse in the country through theconduct of the 2019 National HouseholdSurvey on the Patterns and Trends of DrugAbuse or the 2019 Drug Survey.

As the central statistical authority of thePhilippine government on primary data

iii

Using established data processing andlogistical rules, we were able to generatestatistical tables, perform data analytics,and construct the report of the 2019 DrugSurvey. Through this survey, we believe thatwe are able to scientifically generate theprevalence of lifetime and currentdrug use, determine the patterns andtrends of the drug problem, and evaluatethe performance of the government in drugprevention and control, as seen from thelens of Filipinos.

As an independent research andtechnology solutions provider, I-MetricsAsia is honored to be part of the 2019National Household Survey on the Patternsand Trends of Drug Abuse. As an institutiondoing business in the country, we are alsoreassured that the government is on theright track in using statistically andscientifically-based information in theplanning and formulation of policies andprograms to address our problem on illegaldrugs.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of I-Metrics Asia, I would like to thank the DDBfor the opportunity to be part of thisundertaking. For us, it was a remarkableanalytic journey to apply a comprehensiveapproach to establish empirical andevidence-based data and information ondrug abuse in the Philippines. We can putour name on the line and attest to thefaithfulness of the survey results to thedata collected from the ground.

NICK FONTANILLA, Ph.D.President and CEO

I-Metrics Asia-Pacific Corporation

Providing policy makers and decisionmakers in government and industry withtimely and relevant tracking andmeasurement data has been the thrust of I-Metrics Asia-Pacific Corporation (I-Metrics Asia). We have been providingresearch and information technologysolutions to industry, government, andacademic institutions not only in thePhilippines but also in Singapore andIndonesia.

With our 20 years of research experience,we have been fortunate to have beencommissioned to validate and analyze thedata collected through a survey by theDangerous Drugs Board (DDB) incollaboration with the Department of SocialWelfare and Development (DSWD) and thePhilippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

The study produced a wealth of survey datawith more than 11 million informationalinputs which is a formidable data size.

iv

v

of Social Welfare and Development(DSWD), Philippine Statistics Authority(PSA), and I-Metrics Asia Pacific, Inc.

The DSWD, as the lead agency in socialprotection and member of the Inter-AgencyCommittee on Anti-Illegal Drugs, ishonored to be part of the 2019 Drug Surveythrough the engagement of our fieldworkers under the Pantawid PamilyangPilipino Program (4Ps) in gathering thenecessary data for the survey.

The data, information, and analysis of thesurvey would greatly contribute inmaintaining a well-informed society,broaden the public's perception, andenable our government to become adept inaddressing the present condition of thedrug problem through crafting effective,efficient, and responsive policies,programs and strategies.

On behalf of DSWD, I would like to thankthe DDB for this great opportunity and forproviding the necessary support in thefulfillment of the data gatheringrequirements of the survey. I commend theefforts of the 4Ps National ProgramManagement Office for taking the initiativeand our field personnel in our Field Officeswho carried out the work. You have made agreat contribution by helping ourkababayans understand the context of ournation's drug problem, enabling them toparticipate in proposing necessary actionsand solutions.

The Philippine government, under theleadership of President Rodrigo R. Duterte,has been intensifying its efforts againstillegal substance, which is one of thecauses hindering the empowerment ofFilipinos.

In acknowledging the extent of thecountry's drug problem, the governmenthas lengthened its strides in building drug-free communities (DFCs) that arecomfortable, peaceful, and just through theadoption of the whole-of-nation approach.The 2019 National Household Survey onthe Patterns and Trends of Drug Abuseshowed the efforts of the government inattaining DFCs and the magnitude of thenationwide drug problem.

The said survey is the result ofcollaboration and partnership between theDangerous Drugs Board (DDB), Department

Rest assured that DSWD will continue toprovide full support to all initiatives of thegovernment in relation to our battle againstillegal drugs. We are also committed tocontinuously fulfill our task of empoweringlocal government units and otherstakeholders in the provision of aftercareand support services to transformrecovering persons who used drugs.

More than providing data and information,may the results of the survey also igniteactions among our fellow citizens tocontribute towards building a nation that isfree from the clutches of illegal drugs.

Maraming salamat at patuloy tayongmagtulungan upang bawiin ang ating bayanmula sa ilegal na droga.

The 2019 National Household Survey onthe Patterns and Trends of Drug Abusewas conducted in collaboration with theDepartment of Social Welfare andDevelopment (DSWD), Philippine StatisticsAuthority (PSA), and I-Metrics Asia Pacific,Inc.

Research framework, methodology andinstruments were validated and vetted bythe PSA. Trained field interviewers of theDSWD were engaged for the data gatheringactivities. Processing of data and analysis,on the other hand, was done by I-MetricsAsia Pacific, Inc.

vi

The main objective of the 2019 NationalHousehold Survey on the Patterns andTrends of Drug Abuse is to determine themagnitude of the drug problem nationwide and estimate the number of lifetime andcurrent drug users. Specifically, it aims todetermine prevalence and number oflifetime and current drug users (local andnational levels); define the demographiccharacteristics of lifetime and current drugusers; measure awareness of therespondents to the anti-drug programs andservices provided by the government at thebarangay level; and providerecommendations to counter the drugproblem at the national level.

The survey employed face-to-faceinterviews with 9,341 Filipinos, aged 10-69years, randomly selected in all 17 regions(including BARMM and CAR) in thePhilippines. The survey was designed toproduce representative estimates for thePhilippines as a whole and for each of the17 administrative regions. At a 95%confidence level and a sample size of9,341, the margin of error is plus or minus1.01. This means that if we do the samesurvey 20 times, we will get the sameresults 19 out of 20 (95%) plus or minus1.01 percent.

"DETERMINE THE MAGNITUDE OF THE DRUG PROBLEMNATIONWIDE AND ESTIMATE THE NUMBER OF LIFETIMEAND CURRENT DRUG USERS"

ExecutiveSummary

1

Lifetime User Prevalence Rate: Twoquestions were used to estimate andderive lifetime user prevalence rate. Basedon this, lifetime user prevalence rate is5.8% of Filipinos with ages from 10 to 69years old. This figure suggests that forevery 100 Filipinos aged 10-69 years, six(6) have tried dangerous drugs/substancesat least once in their lifetime.

Using Philippine Statistics Authority's(PSA) 2019 population projectionscovering ages 10 to 69 (81,713,276),lifetime user prevalence rate translates to4.7 million Filipinos (or between 3.9million to 5.6 million Filipinos), distributedas follows:

FILIPINOS AGED10-69 YEARSHAVE TRIEDDANGEROUSDRUGS ATLEAST ONCE INTHEIR LIFE

6 OUT OF 100

2

3

Current User Prevalence Rate: DDB'sProject Team selected two variables toestimate current user prevalence rate.Based on this, current user prevalence rateis 2.05% of Filipinos with ages 10 to 69years old. This translates to around 1.7million Filipinos in that age range, implyingthat for every 100 Filipinos aged 10-69years, two (2) are using dangerousdrugs/substances at the time of theinterview.

2 OUT OF 100FILIPINOS AGED10-69 YEARS AREUSING DANGEROUSDRUGS AT THETIME OF THEINTERVIEW

Widely Known Dangerous Drugs/Substances: As to what dangerousdrugs/substances come to mind first whenasked, 47.9% of the respondentsmentioned Shabu and 35%, Marijuana.These are also the top two (2) dangerousdrugs and substances prominentlymentioned across regions, gender, agegroup, and educational attainment.Television is the primary source ofknowledge of respondents across region,gender, age group, and educationalattainment. Other sources include radio,neighbor, friend, internet, and school. It hasbeen noted that the internet is emerging asone of the top sources of awareness.

Marijuana (57%) and Shabu (35%) are thetop two (2) dangerous drugs of choice ofFilipino lifetime users aged 10-69 yearsold.

Government's Anti-Drug Campaign: About 65.8% of respondents (6,149 out ofN=9,341) say that they are aware of thegovernment's anti-drug campaign.

Of those who are aware, about 81.6%(5,017 out of n=6,149) either agree (33.6%or 2,066 out of n=6,149) or strongly agree(48.0% or 2,951 out of n=6,149) to thegovernment's anti-drug campaign.

Significantly, those who are aware of thegovernment's anti-drug campaign opinethat the current drug situation under thepresent administration has slightlyimproved (34.7% or 2,133 out of n=6,149)to greatly improved (45.5% or 2,798 out ofn=6,149). 

Profiling Drug Users: Using several featureselection methods, the study shortlisted afew variables that have strong associationwith drug use and non-drug use. These areregion, gender, and age when user startedrisky behaviors.

Chi-squared Automatic InteractionDetection (CHAID), a decision tree model,created several predictive paradigms witha rule confidence ranging from 70% to91%. The model validates the gatewayprinciple that a drug user becomes oneafter starting to smoke at age 17 oryounger, follows up with drinking at age 20or younger. He starts smoking and drinkingbecause of peer influence and curiosity.The model suggests an information andadvocacy program that prevents juniorhigh school students from initiating tosmoke and alcohol drinking.

MARIJUANA 

ARE THE TOP TWODRUGS OF CHOICE

AND SHABU

4

Recommendations: The government hasbeen successful in  informing the publicand making them understand the perils ofdrug abuse. However, there is a need toaddress the identified triggers/gatewaysthat lead one to drug experimentation. Theprogression to drug use continues unlessthe bud (smoking/alcohol drinking) isdeterred at a young age. This is a youthproblem that requires a whole-of-nationapproach. The Department of Health should explorehealthy alternatives to deter youth fromengaging in unhealthy habits and heightentheir campaign on the promotionof healthy lifestyles and prevention of theearly onset of smoking and other vices.  The Department of Education to continueteaching young students the hazards ofsmoking and alcohol drinking, imposingcertain restrictions to prevent earlyinitiation.

The Department of the Interior and LocalGovernment should issue circularsdirecting local government units (LGUs) topromote smoke-free/alcohol-freecommunities particularly for the youth andoffer alternative wholesome activities forthem.

In turn, LGUs should legislate specificordinances against smoking/alcohol

The anti-drug efforts of thegovernment with targeted campaignsagainst smoking and alcohol drinkingamong teenagers should maximizeonline platforms.Preventive and intervention programsshould best be delivered across socialand traditional media.As established, reduction in thenumber of teenagers who venture intosmoking and alcohol drinking at certainages will likely lessen the probabilitytowards drug experimentation/use.The campaign should promote suitablealternatives or messages at ages whenthese teenagers are most vulnerable. In accordance with the whole-of-nationapproach, the government shouldinvolve the private sector, NGOs, faith-based groups, and other stakeholdersin the overall campaign against drugs.Monitoring, review, assessment andevaluation of programs and projects tomake the anti-drug campaignresponsive, relevant, and sustainable.

drinking by minors, provide interventions tothose caught in possession of cigarettes/liquors and promote programs that createpsychological barriers towards earlysmoking/alcohol drinking, among others.  The Department of Finance, through theBureau of Customs, may implementstricter measures to prevent smuggling ofcigarette and liquor.

Other recommended actions are asfollows:

"THE PROGRESSIONTO DRUG USECONTINUE UNLESSTHE BUD ISDETERRED AT AYOUNG AGE"

5

The survey was designed toproduce representativeestimates for thePhilippines as a whole andfor each of the 17administrative regions.

Respondents of the surveyare Filipinos 10 to 69 yearsold, regardless of socio-economic status and stateof physical health.

At a 95% confidence leveland a sample size of 9,341,the margin of error is +/-1.01%.

Data Gathering Method

 

Objectives

The main objective of the 2019 NationalHousehold Survey on the Patterns andTrends of Drug Abuse is to determine themagnitude of the drug problem nationwideand estimate the number of lifetime andcurrent drug users.

Specific objectives are as follows:

To determine prevalenceand number of lifetime andcurrent drug users (localand national levels).

To define the demographiccharacteristics of lifetimeand current drug users.

To measure awareness ofthe respondents of the anti-drug programs andservices provided by thegovernment at thebarangay level.

To providerecommendations tocounter the drug problem atthe national level.

The survey covered 9,341households randomlyselected in all 17 regions(including BARMM andCAR) of the Philippines.

Data collection was doneface-to-face fromDecember 2019 to February2020 by trained fieldinterviewers of theDepartment of SocialWelfare and Development(DSWD) using structured questionnaire,comprehensive surveymanual, Computer-AidedPersonal Interview (CAPI)programmed tablet andPaper and Pen Interview(PAPI) forms.

 

Introduction1

Sampling Design

6

7

Sample Size by Region

The sample size for each of the 17 regionranged from 529 to 561.

Response ErrorsDue to PerceivedIncriminatoryNature of theQuestionsThe nature of the surveysuggests that we need toconsider possible responseerrors. The main question onthe use of dangerous drugsis very sensitive andconsidered by those whomay be alluded to by thequestion as incriminating.Direct questioning did notyield full cooperation fromlifetime users which wasanticipated. Voluntaryresponse could have beenperceived as damaging andpotentially affects eligibilityto some governmentprograms like 4Ps. Thecurrent user prevalence rateintends to measure thenumber of current usersbased on certain indicators.For such cases, we utilizedproxy responses tosubstitute for drug use.

Sample Survey The 2019 study is a samplesurvey of Filipinos who are 10to 69 years old. It wasdesigned to producerepresentative estimates forthe Philippines as a whole andfor each of 17 administrativeregions.

External ConditionsThere were challenges in thedata collection includingpeace and order conditions insome survey areas, weatherconditions at the time of thesurvey, limited transportation,and distances of householdsin rural areas.

Margin of ErrorAs a sample survey, margin oferror (MOE) applies. MOE tells us how many percentagepoints the results may differfrom the real population value.For this study, at a 95%confidence level and a samplesize of 9,341, the margin oferror is +/-1.01%.

Delimitations of the Survey

As a sample survey, it is important to notethe statistical and practical limitations ofthe study, among which are as follows: 

8

Educational Attainment (N=9,341)The respondents who have gone up to high school level comprised the biggestgroup (43.0%). Following a far second arethose who have reached elementary levelonly (28.6%). Those who have attendedcollege occupy the third spot (23.0%). Aminority have taken vocational education(2.9%).

Respondent Profile

Detailed Research Findings2

Age (N=9,341)The study sampleconsisted mostly ofFilipinos aged 18-59years (69.9%). The10-17 years oldcomprised 17.8%and those aged 60-69 years, 12.3%.

Sex (N=9,341)The studyrespondents wereabout equally dividedbetween males andfemales.

Socio Economic Classification (N=9,341)

*Based on DSWD Classification

9

Lifetime User Prevalence 

Lifetime User Prevalence Rate (N=9,341)

5.8%Lifetime user prevalence rate

MOE = +/-1.01%(minimum of 4.79% tomaximum of 6.81%)

Estimated population of lifetime users:4,739,370(minimum of 3.9 million tomaximum of 5.6 million)

ABOUT 4.7 MILLION OR

SIX OUT OF EVERY100 FILIPINOS

AGED 10-69 YEARSTRIED DANGEROUS

DRUGS/SUBSTANCESAT LEAST ONCE

IN THEIR LIFE

Estimated Number of Lifetime Users by RegionThe top five (5) regions perceived to be with the greatest number of lifetime users are:Region 4A, NCR, Regions 6, 7, and 3.

Chart 1. Perceived Regional Estimate of the Number of Lifetime Users (in thousands)

Note: The numbers shown above the bars are population estimates of perceived lifetime users inthousands while the numbers below the region names are the perceived lifetime user prevalence rates inpercentages

10

Reasons for Trying Dangerous Drugs/Substances (n=541)Peer influence and curiosity are the main reasons for trying dangerous drugs/substances.

57.4%INFLUENCED BY

FRIENDS

23.7%CURIOSITY

57% MARIJUANACANNABIS SATIVA

11

Average Age When First Tried Using Dangerous Drugs/Substances (n=541)Most lifetime users were initiated to dangerous drugs/substance use at age 22.

22 YEARS OLDAGE WHEN MOSTLIFETIME USERS

STARTED TRYINGDANGEROUS DRUGS/

SUBSTANCES

Dangerous Drugs/Substances Ever Tried (n=541)Marijuana (57%) and Shabu (35%) are the top two (2) dangerous drugs of choice of Filipinolifetime users aged 10-69 years.

35% SHABUMETHAMPHETAMINEHYDROCHLORIDE

Lifetime User Prevalence Rate by SexAbout 9.3% or 442 of n=4,730 males aged 10-69 years have tried takingdrugs/substances compared to only 2.2% or 99 of n=4,611 females.

Lifetime User Prevalence Rate by Age GroupA total of 6.9% of those 18-59 years old have tried taking dangerous drugs/ substancescompared to only 1.4% of those 10-17 years old and 5.8% of those belonging to 60-69years old.

10-17 years old1.4% or 24 of n=1,666

18-59 years old6.9% or 450 of n=6,526

60-69 years old5.8% or 67 of n=1,149

12

13

Lifetime User Prevalence Rate byEducational AttainmentBased on this survey, those with vocationaleducation are more likely to have trieddangerous drugs/substances than thosefrom other education attainment levelgroups. The same can be said about thosewith college education when compared tothose with either high school or elementaryeducation attainment.

Vocational10.2% or 28 of n=271

College7.1% or 152 of n=2,144

High School5.7% or 227 of n=4,018

Elementary4.2% or 113 of n=2,675

Not Specified8.7% or 20 of n=233

Lifetime User Prevalence Rate by Socio-economic Class

*Based on DSWD Classification

Current User Prevalence 

Current User Prevalence Rate (N=9,341)

2.05%Current user prevalence rate

MOE = +/-1.01%(minimum of 1.04% tomaximum of 3.06%)

Estimated population of current users:

1,675,122(minimum of 849,818 tomaximum of 2,500,426)

ABOUT 1.7 MILLION OR

TWO OUT OFEVERY 100FILIPINOS

AGED 10-69 YEARSARE TAKING DANGEROUS

DRUGS/SUBSTANCESAT THE TIME OF THE

INTERVIEW

Estimated Number of Current Users by RegionThe top five (5) regions perceived to be with the highest number of current users are:Region 3, NCR, Regions 4A, 6, and 7.

Chart 2. Perceived Regional Estimate of the Number of Current Users (in thousands)

Note: The numbers shown above the bars are population estimates of perceived current users inthousands while the numbers below the region names are the perceived current user prevalence rates inpercentages.

14

Current User Prevalence Rate by SexAbout 3.78% or 179 of n=4,730 males aged 10-69 years are current drug users at thetime of the interview compared to only 0.28% or 13 of n=4,611 females.

Current User Prevalence Rate by Age GroupAround 2.73% of those belonging to 18-59 years old are current users of dangerousdrugs/substances at the time of the interview compared to only 0.07% of those in the 10-17 age bracket and 1.08% of the 60-69 years old.

10-17 years old0.07% or 1 of n=1,666

18-59 years old2.73% or 178 of n=6,526

60-69 years old1.08% or 12 of n=1,149

15

16

Current User Prevalence Rate byEducational AttainmentThose with vocational education are morelikely to be current users of dangerousdrugs/substances at the time of theinterview than those from other educationattainment level groups. There is not muchdifference in the current user prevalencerate among those who attained college,high school, and elementary education.

Vocational5.68% or 15 of n=271

College2.09% or 45 of n=2,144

High School2.02% or 81 of n=4,018

Elementary1.66% or 44 of n=2,675

Not Specified2.54% or 6 of n=233

Current User Prevalence Rate by Socio-economic Class

*Based on DSWD Classification

Top Ten Sources of Awareness (N=9,341)

Awareness of Dangerous Drugs/Substances and Sourcesof Awareness

Top-of-Mind Recall of Dangerous Drugs/Substances (N=9,341)When asked as to what dangerous drugs/substances come to mind first, 47.9% of therespondents mentioned Shabu and 35.0%, Marijuana.

47.9% SHABUMETHAMPHETAMINEHYDROCHLORIDE

35% MARIJUANACANNABIS SATIVA

Respondents get their information on dangerous drugs/substances through TV, radio,neighbors, friends, among others. Take note that the internet is emerging to be one ofthe top sources of awareness on dangerous drugs and substances.

17

Perception on People Who Would be Most Helpful for Those Who Use DangerousDrugs/Substances (N=9,341)Institutions or people that respondents consider to be most helpful to drug users whowould like to seek interventions are: household/family members, police, and LGU,among others.

Public Perceptions About Drug UsePerceived Negative Effects of Drug Use (N=9,341)

Chart 3. Perceived Negative Effects of Drug Use 

*multiple responsesNote: The numbers shown above the bars are in percentages.

Health problems top the list of perceived negative effects of drug use. The othercommonly mentioned negative effects are: hallucination, separation of family, anddamage on self-image.

42.2%Household

33.9%Police

26.1%LGU

19.6%Health Centers

13%Community

10%Church

18

29.2%look for productive

leisure activities

24.6%keep oneself busy

with career/job/business

20.9%stay at home

16.5%think about impact

on family

13.5%pray

62.6%PEER INFLUENCE

Perception on Ways to Avoid Using Dangerous Drugs/Substances (N=9,341)According to respondents, the top five (5) ways to avoid using dangerousdrugs/substances are: looking for productive leisure activities, keeping oneself busy,staying at home, thinking about impact on family, and praying.

8.9%study

6.6%exercise

5%sleep/ rest

4.2%eat

6.6%no answer

19

Risky Behavior: Smoking

Percentage of Filipinos Aged 10-69 YearsWho have Tried Smoking (N=9,341)About 36.2% of Filipinos aged 10-69 yearshave tried smoking. This translates to about 29 million Filipinos who have tried smokingor a ratio of four (4) out of ten (10) Filipinosaged 10-69 years.

Age When Started Smoking (n=3,385)Nineteen (19) years old is the starting agefor smoking, on the average, amongFilipinos aged 10-69 years.

Reasons for Trying to Smoke (n=3,385)Peer influence and curiosity are theidentified reasons for trying to smoke,among others.

62.6%PEER INFLUENCE

39.8%CURIOSITY

Percentage of Triers Who Continue to Smoke (n=3,385)Close to half (44.2%) of those who have tried smoking claimed to have continued thehabit at the time of the interview.

ON THEAVERAGE,

FILIPINOSAGED 10-69

YEARS TRIEDSMOKING AT

NINETEENYEARS OLD

20

Risky Behavior: Alcohol Drinking

Percentage of Filipinos Aged 10-69 Years Who have Tried Alcohol Drinking (N=9,341)About 56.7% of Filipinos aged 10-69 years have tried alcohol drinking. This translates toabout 46 million or a ratio of six (6) out of ten (10) Filipinos aged 10-69 have trieddrinking alcohol.

Age When Started Alcohol Drinking (n=5,299)Twenty-one (21) years old is the starting age for alcohol drinking, on the average, forFilipinos aged 10-69 years.

Reasons for Continuing to Smoke (n=1,496)At the time of the interview, respondents who have tried smoking cited that the mainreasons for continuing to smoke are enjoyment/relaxation and cannot stop it.

54.3%ENJOYMENT &

RELAXATION

18.9%CANNOT STOP

IT

56.7%TRIED ALCOHOLDRINKING

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Percentage of Triers Who Continue to Take Alcoholic Drinks (n=5,299)At the time of the interview, more than half (53.9%) of those who have tried alcoholdrinking claimed to have continued the habit.

Reasons for Continuing to Take Alcoholic Drinks (n=2,856)At the time of the interview, respondents who have tried drinking alcoholic drinks citedthat the main reasons for continuing to take alcoholic drinks are socialization andenjoyment/relaxation.

Reasons for Trying Alcohol Drinking (n=5,299)At the time of the interview, respondents who have tried alcohol drinking identified peerinfluence and curiosity as the main reasons for their initiation to alcohol drinking.

68.4%PEER

INFLUENCE31.4%

CURIOSITY

51.8%SOCIALIZATION

44.7%ENJOYMENT &

RELAXATION

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Stepwise approachStatistical-based feature selection methodDerived central tendenciesDescriptive analysesLinear structural relationship (Path Model)Correspondence analysis (Perceptual Mapping)Chi-squared Automatic Interaction Detection (CHAID)

Statistical Tools Used to Look into the Interrelationship of the Three Risky BehaviorsThe following are the statistical tools used to determine the link between and among thethree (3) risky behaviors:

The Link Between and Among Smoking, Alcohol Drinking,and Trying Drugs

Smoking, Drinking and Trying Drugs LinkThe pattern of drug taking of 541 respondents who are lifetime users are:

74.5%(403)

use drugs,smoke, and

drink

12.8%(69)

drink anduse drugs

9.8%(53)

use drugs only

3%(16)

smoke anduse drugs

Of the 4.7 million Filipinos aged 10-69 years who are lifetime users, about 3.5 milliontried drugs, smoking, and alcohol drinking simultaneously. This translates to four (4)out of 100 Filipinos aged 10-69 years have tried drugs, smoking, and alcohol drinkingsimultaneously once in their life.

Of the 4.7 million Filipinos aged 10-69 years who are lifetime users, about 600,000tried drugs and alcohol drinking simultaneously. This translates to one (1) out of 100Filipinos aged 10-69 years have tried drugs and alcohol drinking simultaneously oncein their life.

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36.2% (of N=9,341) started smoking at age 19,mainly due to peer influence and curiosity. 44%(of n=3,385) continued to smoke for enjoyment and relaxation, or they cannot stop.

56.7% (of N=9,341) tried drinking at age 21,mainly due to peer influence and curiosity. 54%(of n=5,299) continued to drink forsocialization, enjoyment and relaxation.

5.8% (of N=9,341) tried taking drugs at age 22,mainly due to peer influence and curiosity. 36%(of n=541) continued to use drugs because ithelps in getting to sleep, forgetting problems,and other reasons.

Of the 4.7 million Filipinos aged 10-69 years who are lifetime users, about 142,000tried drugs and smoking simultaneously. This translates to two (2) out of 1000Filipinos aged 10-69 years have tried drugs and smoking simultaneously once in theirlifet.

Progression of Risky Behavior

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Non-drug users first tried smoking at 19 years old while thosewho tried drugs did at age 17. The mean difference is statisticallysignificant.

While most who tried drugs started smoking at 17 years old,those who started smoking earlier at 15 years old and belowhave greater chances of becoming drug users than others.

Non-drug users first tried alcoholic drinks at 21 years old whilethose who tried drugs did at age 18. The mean difference isstatistically significant.

Respondents who started drinking at 18 years old and below aremore likely to be drug users than others. 

Most lifetime drug users (74.4%) engage in drug use simultaneously with smoking andalcohol drinking.

They progressed from smoking (starting at age 17) to alcohol drinking (starting at age18) to trying dangerous drugs and substances (starting at age 22).

Youth Smoking and Drug Use

Youth Drinking and Drug Use

Youth Smoking, Drinking, and Drug Use

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Government's Anti-Drug Campaign

Public Awareness and Reception of the Government's Anti-Drug CampaignAbout 65.8% of respondents (6,149 out of N=9,341) say that they are aware of thegovernment's anti-drug campaign.

Of those who are aware, about 81.6% (5,017 out of n=6,149) either agree (33.6% or 2,066out of n=6,149) or strongly agree (48.0% or 2,951 out of n=6,149) to the government'santi-drug campaign.

Significantly, those who are aware of the government's anti-drug campaign opine that thecurrent drug situation under the present administration has slightly improved (34.7% or2,133 out of n=6,149) to greatly improved (45.5% or 2,798 out of n=6,149).

46%Police Visibility

(24/7 police surveillance,

24/7 police hotline, etc.)

43%Drug Clearing

Operations

33%Anti-Drug Abuse

Advocacy Seminars and Trainings

31%Police House

Visitation

22%Education and

VocationalPrograms

Awareness of Specific Anti-Drug ProgramsThe top five anti-drug programs in terms of awareness are: police visibility, drug clearingoperations, anti-drug advocacy seminars and trainings, police house visitations, andeducation and vocational programs.

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The internet is an emerging mediumfor awareness on dangerous drugs andsubstances.

The earlier the person is initiated tosmoking and alcohol drinking, thegreater the likelihood for him to try/usedangerous drugs and substances.

High awareness on the government'santi-drug campaign among the generalpopulation is evident.

The government's anti-drug campaignis well-received by the public.

The directions and programs that thegovernment has undertaken during thepresent administration have beenproven effective as evidenced by thepublic's acceptance of thegovernment's anti-drug campaign andthe observed drop in the userprevalence rates.

The high awareness and goodreception of the public on thegovernment's anti-drug campaigncould be the reason for the decline inthe user prevalence rates.

The government not only succeeded inflattening the user prevalence ratecurve but has also seemingly reversedthe trend.

Conclusions3

THE GOVERNMENTNOT ONLY

SUCCEEDED IN FLATTENING THE

USER PREVALENCERATE CURVE BUT

HAS ALSOSEEMINGLY

REVERSED THETREND

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explore healthy alternatives to deteryouth from engaging in unhealthyhabits and heighten their campaign onthe promotion of healthy lifestyles andprevention of the early onset ofsmoking and other vices.

step up the campaign to removestigma against Persons Who UseDrugs (PWUDs) who will undergotreatment and rehabilitation.

provide technical assistance to variousduty bearers through the conduct ofrelevant trainings that will enable themto provide standard health services forevery level of drug use.

enhance the implementation of the RedOrchid Award, based on the WorldHealth Organization MPOWERFramework, to recognize 100%tobacco-free environment.

The government has been successful ininforming the public and making themunderstand the perils of drug abuse.However, there is a need to address theidentified triggers/gateways that lead oneto drug experimentation. The progressionto drug use continues unless the bud(smoking/alcohol drinking) is deterred at ayoung age. This is a youth problem thatrequires a whole-of-nation approach.

In the light of the foregoing findings, thefollowing are hereby recommended.

For the Department of Health to:

(in cooperation with LGUs)

Recommendations4

continue teaching young students thehazards of smoking and alcoholdrinking, imposing certain restrictionsto prevent early initiation.

issue circulars directing localgovernment units (LGUs) to promotesmoke-free/ alcohol-free communitiesparticularly for the youth and offeralternative wholesome activities forthem, and monitor implementationthereof.

For the Department of Education to:

For the Department of the Interior andLocal Government to:

THERE IS A NEEDTO ADDRESS

THE IDENTIFIEDTRIGGERS/

GATEWAYS THATLEAD ONE TO DRUGEXPERIMENTATION

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legislate and implement ordinancesagainst smoking/ alcohol drinking byminors, provide interventions to thosecaught in possession of cigarettes/liquors, and promote programs thatcreate psychological barriers towardsearly smoking/ alcohol drinking, amongothers. Police/local officials' visibilityand vigilance should be assured toguarantee an environment that deterssmoking/alcohol drinking by minors.

strengthen the promotion ofcommunity-based drug rehabilitationprogram and other services forPWUDs. (in coordination with DOH)

regularly monitor and inspectestablishments offering cigarettes andalcoholic beverages to deter selling tominors. (with other appropriateagencies)

implement stricter measures to preventsmuggling of cigarettes and liquor.

come up with legislation regarding theminimum/legal age requirement ofindividuals allowed to buy alcoholicdrinks and cigarettes/nicotine productsand other forms of smoking.

For the Local Government Units to:

For the Department of Finance, through theBureau of Customs to:

For the Congress to:

The anti-drug efforts of thegovernment with targeted campaignsagainst smoking and alcohol drinkingamong teenagers should maximizeonline platforms, among others.

Preventive and intervention programsshould best be delivered across socialand traditional media.

As established, reduction in thenumber of teenagers who venture intosmoking and alcohol drinking at certainages will likely lessen the probabilitytowards drug experimentation/use.The campaign should promote suitablealternatives or messages at ages whenthese teenagers are most vulnerable.

The concerned national governmentagencies and LGUs to implement andstrengthen the Family Drug AbusePrevention Program, Special DrugEducation Centers, and other childrenand youth-based programs.

The law enforcement to continue theconduct of anti-drug operations basedon a comprehensive approachanchored on the rule of law andadheres to principles of human rights.

Other Recommendations

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In accordance with the whole-of-nationapproach, the government shouldinvolve the private sector, non-government organizations, faith-basedgroups, and other stakeholders in theoverall campaign against drugs.

Monitoring, review, assessment, andevaluation of programs and projectsregularly, in line with the PADS targetsand deliverables, to make the anti-drugcampaign responsive, relevant, andsustainable. Sharing and adaptation ofgood and best practices should beencouraged.

Allocation of more resources,programs, and services to perceivedhigh risk areas for drug use. At thesame time, a study of conditions andbest practices in less vulnerable areasshould be undertaken to determinefactors that lead to a lower afflictionrate, for possible application andreplication in problem areas.

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The 2019 National Household Survey onthe Patterns and Trends of Drug Abuse

(2019 Drug Survey) is conducted incollaboration with the Department of

Social Welfare and Development (DSWD),Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) and

I-Metrics Asia Pacific Corporation.

For more information on the 2019 DrugSurvey or on the Philippine Anti-Illegal

Drugs Strategy (PADS), please send anemail to info@ddb.gov.ph or call us at

(02) 8929-1753 or 89294544.