The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) commended the 10 fishermen who reported to authorities their discovery of methamphetamine hydrochloride, or shabu, worth ₱1,514,054,000.00 found floating off the waters of Masinloc, Zambales last May 29, 2025.
“They (fishermen) chose to do what is right. Their vigilant efforts and honesty of surrendering their extraordinary find deserved recognition,” said PDEA Director General Undersecretary Isagani R Nerez.
On June 2, 2025, ten local fishermen from Barangay Sisiman, Mariveles, Bataan turned over 10 sacks containing 223 vacuum-sealed transparent plastic packs of suspected shabu, weighing approximately 222.655 kilograms, to joint elements of PDEA Bataan Seaport Interdiction Unit and Bataan Provincial Office and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Bataan.
“The discovery of the floating shabu highlights the importance of community vigilance and diligence in reporting illegal drug activities. The action of our hero fisherfolks 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,” Undersecretary Nerez added.
Director General Nerez also emphasized the effective and efficient collaboration between PDEA and PCG in combating drug smuggling using the country’s vast and porous shorelines and harnessing community support against illegal drugs. PDEA also acknowledges the support of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in ensuring the safety of coastal municipalities.
On the other hand, PDEA, as one of the support agencies to the National Maritime Council, continues to render assistance to the Council in addressing drug-related issues affecting the country’s maritime security and domain awareness. At the community level, PDEA implements “Coast Watch”- a community and law enforcement collaboration that involves the training of local fishers and barangay officials equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledges to identify and report suspicious drug-related activities effectively.
PDEA, in lateral coordination with other law enforcement agencies, is conducting a thorough investigation to track down the source of the floating shabu and identify those responsible for the dumping incident.
In line with the thrust of President Ferdinand R Marcos, Jr. to intensify the fight against drug trafficking, PDEA continues to strengthen partnership with other concerned government agencies, to prevent our waters from becoming transit and dropping points for large volume of dangerous drugs.
