Joint Drug Interception in the West Philippine Sea
A recent collaborative operation by the Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), and Philippine Navy successfully intercepted a significant quantity of suspected marijuana worth P19.2 million in the West Philippine Sea. The operation took place on a routine maritime patrol near Sabina Shoal, where Navy personnel discovered a drifting black duffle bag.
Upon investigation, authorities found 32 heat-sealed plastic packs containing approximately 16 kilograms of dried marijuana buds. The seized items were transported to a Philippine Navy facility in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, for proper documentation and inventory, which was carried out in coordination with the PDEA provincial office. Acting PNP Chief PLt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. expressed that this operation exemplifies the effective collaboration among law enforcement and defense agencies in safeguarding the nation’s borders and protecting the public from illegal drugs.
PNP spokesperson PBrig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño emphasized the importance of inter-agency cooperation to combat drug trafficking, particularly through maritime routes. He noted their commitment to ensuring that the nation’s waterways do not become avenues for drug traffickers.
In a broader context, the PDEA and PNP highlighted the ongoing battle against illegal drugs, reporting substantial successes during a series of operations from October 10 to 17. These efforts resulted in the seizure of illegal drugs valued at P928.03 million. PDEA Director General Isagani Nerez stated that agents executed 89 anti-drug operations, leading to the arrests of 142 individuals. The confiscated drugs included 109,681.84 grams of shabu, 28 ml of liquid shabu, 7,100 grams of cocaine, 62,344.82 grams of marijuana kush, 14.17 grams of dried marijuana leaves, 81,920 marijuana plants, 124 ml of marijuana oil, and 1,250 marijuana seedlings.
Among the arrested suspects, 70 were identified as pushers, while 34 were drug den clients, and 15 were identified as drug den owners or maintainers. Additionally, 11 individuals were categorized as employees, and 12 were simply possessors of illegal substances.
This successful operation and the subsequent arrests demonstrate the commitment of Philippine law enforcement agencies to combat drug trafficking and uphold public safety in the face of ongoing challenges. The collaborative efforts reflect a unified stance against the growing threat of illegal drugs within the country.
