PDEA dismantles Valenzuela shabu lab

Anti-illegal drug operatives seized P6.6 billion worth of shabu and dismantled a clandestine laboratory discovered inside a local warehouse over the weekend, authorities announced Wednesday.

Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) director general Isagani Nerez said the discovery followed the Sunday arrest of a suspect in a Quezon City buy-bust operation. The suspect was apprehended after allegedly selling 500 grams of shabu, valued at P3.4 million, to an undercover agent.

Nerez said intelligence gathered during that transaction led authorities to the Valenzuela facility, which had been under monitoring following previous anti-drug operations.

“This is one of the most significant drug laboratory discoveries in recent years,” Nerez said during a press briefing. “The volume of shabu seized represents nearly one metric ton that would have otherwise flooded communities across Metro Manila and beyond.”

The raid yielded 906.4 kilograms of suspected shabu worth over P6.16 billion. Agents also recovered 64.15 liters of liquid methamphetamine valued at P436.22 million, along with precursors, essential chemicals, and specialized manufacturing equipment.

Valenzuela Mayor Wes Gatchalian said he was surprised by the discovery in a city that houses approximately 15,000 factories and warehouses. He vowed to increase local inspections to prevent similar illegal activities.

“I admit the magnitude of this operation surprised me,” Gatchalian said. “I did not think a clandestine laboratory could exist here. We will conduct inspections more often.”

While the warehouse was empty at the time of the raid, PNP Drug Enforcement Group chief Brig. Gen. Elmer Ragay said investigators have identified three to four suspects. Criminal complaints have been filed, and police are preparing for manhunt operations once arrest warrants are issued.