Following the seizure of β±1.17 billion worth of suspected shabu inside seven sacks off the coastal waters of Pangasinan, joint authorities have recovered 21 more sacks of suspected illegal drugs through fisherfolk collaboration and continued maritime operations β bringing the total recovery to 28 sacks as of yesterday, 06 June 2025.
Under the directive of President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) intensify their anti-illegal drug operations in the countryβs waters.
According to the Coast Guard District North Western Luzon (CGDNWLZN), a total of 28 sacks of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride locally known as βshabu,β have been seized within its area of responsibility (AOR) from 05 to 06 June 2025 β with local fishermen playing a crucial role in identifying and reporting these suspicious floating packages to the PCG.
βThe latest finds came from a combination of Coast Guard maritime patrols and swift reporting of fisherfolk, who have been instrumental in ensuring the safe turnover of these contrabands,β the CGDNWLZN added.
Joint authorities lauded the continued vigilance and cooperation of the local fishing community, whose prompt reporting has been vital in containing the potential maritime drug trafficking threat.
Moreover, CGDNWLZN Commander, Captain Mark Larsen Mariano PCG (DSC), emphasized that the heightened coastal security patrols and community engagement initiatives are ongoing, aiming to empower coastal residents to identify and report suspicious activities at sea.
βResidents and fishermen are continuously being reminded that possession or tampering with suspicious packages could lead to criminal charges and discovery of such items should be immediately reported to the nearest PCG unit,β Captain Mariano said.
βThe investigation remains ongoing to determine the source and intended recipients of the recovered illegal drugs,β he furthered.
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