P1.17B shabu seized in Pangasinan after fishermen’s report

Joint operatives from the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine National Police, and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency seized P1.17 billion worth of shabu following a report from a local fisherman in Agno, Pangasinan, who recovered the illegal substance.

The recovery came after a local fisherman in Barangay Balingasay, Agno, reported to the PCG that he found two sacks floating about 32 nautical miles west of Agno.

The substance was temporarily secured at his residence before being turned over to authorities.

During inspection of the nearby waters, four more sacks were recovered in different locations: two by another fisherman, one in Barangay Guiguiwanen, Bolinao; one at Cabana Resort in Bani; and an additional sack in Sabangan Boboy, Agno.

Each sack contained sealed packs of crystalline substances suspected to be methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as "shabu,” the PCG said.

Following the seizures, Coast Guard District Northwestern Luzon Commander Captain Mark Larsen Mariano directed all PCG stations and sub-stations to intensify coastal security patrols and increase community engagement with local fisherfolk to improve maritime surveillance and ensure prompt reporting of similar incidents.

The PCG encourages local fishermen and other maritime stakeholders to report any suspicious floating packages or activities to the nearest Coast Guard station for appropriate action.