The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Saturday said a major haul of suspected illegal drugs was recovered along the coastline of San Vicente, Palawan, over the weekend, preventing the possible distribution of over P26 million worth of narcotics.

PNP Chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the seizure highlights the importance of vigilance and rapid police response in coastal areas often exploited by drug syndicates.

At around 8:22 a.m. on 26 December, personnel from the San Vicente Municipal Police Station and the Palawan Police Provincial Office responded to reports of suspicious packages along the coastal area of Danlog, Sitio Gawid, Barangay Caruray. The items were initially discovered by a group of youths swimming in the area.

Authorities recovered 31 vacuum-sealed transparent plastic packs of suspected marijuana kush, totaling approximately 21.97 kilograms.

The standard market value of the recovered drugs is estimated at P26,364,000. The seized items have been secured at the police station and are set for laboratory examination by the Palawan Forensic Unit.

Nartatez said the operation demonstrates the PNP’s Focused Agenda, particularly the priority on Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which ensures timely and effective responses to illegal activities.

“This operation shows how vigilance and immediate police action can stop illegal drugs before they reach our communities,” Nartatez said. “Recoveries like this send a clear message that illegal drugs have no place in our country.”

The PNP said it continues to strengthen its campaign against illegal drugs and protect vulnerable coastal communities, reaffirming its vision of a “New PNP for a New Philippines: Service that is fast, honest, and felt by the people.”