PNP tightens coastal patrols after P127-M illegal drug bust

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has intensified coastal security operations following the interception of suspected cocaine worth more than P127 million in the waters off Palawan.

PNP chief P/LtGen. Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the joint operation with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) was part of the government’s broader campaign to prevent international drug syndicates from exploiting the country’s maritime routes for smuggling.

Authorities recovered over 24 kilograms of cocaine along Palawan’s coastline during the operation. The seized drugs have been turned over for laboratory examination and proper disposition.

Nartatez said investigators are tracing the source and intended recipients of the shipment as part of efforts to dismantle the transnational network behind it.

“The discovery underscores the importance of coordination between law enforcement agencies. We are determined to identify and neutralize the groups involved in this operation,” Nartatez said.

He added that the PNP will strengthen intelligence-sharing mechanisms with domestic and foreign counterparts to monitor the syndicate’s movements and prevent similar smuggling attempts.

The PNP leadership has also directed the Maritime Group and regional units to maintain heightened patrols in coastal areas, following a separate seizure last month of P19.2 million worth of marijuana near Escoda Shoal in the West Philippine Sea.