By LIEZLE BASA IÑIGO
LABRADOR, Pangasinan — An estimated P6.9 billion worth of suspected shabu was seized in back-to-back anti-drug operations in Pangasinan, marking one of the largest drug hauls in recent years, according to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Philippine National Police (PNP).
The operations took place in Bugallon and Labrador towns on October 2 and 3, respectively.
A total of 1 ton and 20 kilos of suspected shabu were confiscated—125 packs in Bugallon and 895 packs in Labrador.
PDEA Director General Undersecretary Isagani R. Nerez and Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. led a joint press conference to announce the breakthrough.
The initial operation in Bugallon led to the arrest of a Chinese national and his Filipino driver, who are now facing criminal charges.
Authorities said more individuals, including the owner of the warehouse in Barangay Laois, Labrador, will also be charged following the follow-up raid.
The Labrador operation was conducted at a private warehouse on Friday evening, Oct. 3, after nearly two months of surveillance.
The search warrant was secured with the help of Pangasinan Police led by Police Col. Arbel Mercullo, officer-in-charge of the Pangasinan Provincial Office.
Nerez emphasized that the operation was carried out with a strong commitment to human rights.
“Kung titignan n’yo ngayon, very high ang volume ng confiscated pero walang namamatay,” he said.
Authorities are now working to identify key personalities possibly involved in the drug trade in Pangasinan.
Nartatez commended both PDEA and PNP teams for their coordinated efforts, which resulted in the record-breaking seizure.
Nerez also noted that the volume of drugs confiscated in these operations has already surpassed those recorded under the previous administration.
