By Brian Campued
In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify the government’s fight against drug trafficking, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) launched an investigation with other law enforcement agencies to track down the source of the P1.5 billion worth of illegal drugs found floating off the coast of Masinloc, Zambales last week.
In a statement Tuesday, PDEA said around 10 sacks containing 223 vacuum-sealed transparent plastic packs of suspected shabu were discovered at sea by 10 fishermen from Mariveles, Bataan on May 29.
The fisherfolk then turned over the illegal drugs, weighing 222.655 kilograms, to the joint elements of PDEA Bataan Seaport Interdiction Unit, Bataan Provincial Office, and the Philippine Coast Guard on June 2.
PDEA Director General Undersecretary Isagani Nerez commended the honesty and vigilant efforts of the fishermen saying, “They (fishermen) chose to do what is right. Their vigilant efforts and honesty of surrendering their extraordinary find deserved recognition.”
“The discovery of the floating shabu highlights the importance of community vigilance and diligence in reporting illegal drug activities. The action of our hero fisherfolk is an embodiment of what every member of our society should do, that is to contribute to the general welfare and security of our communities.”
Meanwhile, Nerez said PDEA continues to collaborate with local communities to implement “Coast Watch”—an awareness program that provides training for fisherfolk and barangay officials in identifying and reporting suspicious drug-related activities to authorities.
-jpv
