I.

Introduction

The Philippines Enacted the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, also known as
Republic Act 9165, to combat the nation’s growing illicit drug issue and protect the public’s safety by
prohibiting the use and distribution of dangerous drugs. The Law, which dates back to the early 2000s,
aims to apprehend, prosecute, and penalize those who are involved in drug-related activities. It imposes
penalties for illegal activities involving dangerous drugs, including the importation, sale, possession,
maintenance of drug dens, and cultivation of plants that fall under the classification of dangerous drugs.
Severe penalties, including death, life imprisonment, and substantial fines could arise from a violation.
The act also includes the criminal liability of government officials and law enforcement officers engaged
in drug handling and trafficking, which makes them responsible for their acts, including testifying as
prosecution witnesses in drug-related cases.

In cases of unlawful drug possession, the Philippine courts are strict about ensuring that the
evidence given meets the standards required to get a conviction under RA 9165. In the People vs.
Mendoza case, the defendant was found guilty based on physical evidence connecting him to the illegal
substances in question. This serves as a reminder to everyone involved in illegal drug activities that they
will face legal consequences if discovered and prosecuted. On the other hand, the case of Ejercito vs.
Sandiganbayan emphasizes the significance of having adequate evidence to get a conviction under RA
9165. In this case, the Supreme Court dismissed charges against former Senator Jinggoy Estrada because
there was insufficient evidence connecting him to unlawful drug activity. This emphasizes the idea that
prosecution holds the burden of proof to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Furthermore, in nullity cases based on psychological incapacity, courts assess how psychiatric
problems affect a party’s ability to perform responsibilities under the Dangerous Drugs Act. This
emphasizes the importance of mental health in drug-related judicial procedures, as well as the
understanding that serious psychiatric difficulties might impair one’s ability to comply with the law.
Overall, these instances serve as reminders of the complexities and nuances that might arise during
drug-related legal proceedings.