PDEA Commends Bataan Fishermen for Turning Over ₱1.5 Billion Worth of Floating Shabu

**** by: Edjun Mariposque

****

June 3, 2025

3–5 minutes

Ten fishermen from Barangay Sisiman, Mariveles, Bataan earned national praise after voluntarily surrendering over ₱1.5 billion worth of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride, or shabu, which they discovered floating in the waters off Masinloc, Zambales on May 29, 2025.

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) lauded the group for their integrity and swift action in alerting authorities. “These fishermen chose the path of integrity. Their honesty and vigilance in turning over such a significant find deserve the highest commendation,” said PDEA Director General Undersecretary Isagani R. Nerez.

On June 2, the fishermen handed over 10 sacks containing 223 vacuum-sealed plastic packs of suspected shabu, weighing approximately 222.655 kilograms, to joint operatives from the PDEA Bataan Seaport Interdiction Unit, the PDEA Bataan Provincial Office, and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Bataan.

Undersecretary Nerez emphasized that the incident highlights the critical role of community involvement in the country’s fight against illegal drugs. “The courageous act of these local fisherfolk sets a powerful example of civic responsibility. Every citizen has a role in safeguarding our communities,” he said.

He also recognized the coordinated efforts of PDEA and the PCG in patrolling the nation’s coastal areas, noting the ongoing support from the Philippine National Police (PNP) in securing maritime zones vulnerable to smuggling operations.

PDEA continues to collaborate with the National Maritime Council in enhancing maritime domain awareness and addressing drug-related threats. One such initiative is the “Coast Watch” program, which trains local fishermen and barangay officials to detect and report suspicious activities linked to drug trafficking.

Authorities have launched an in-depth investigation to trace the origin of the floating shabu and identify those behind the smuggling attempt.

In support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify the crackdown on drug trafficking, PDEA reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening inter-agency partnerships to prevent Philippine waters from being exploited as entry or dumping points for illegal drugs.

“Acts like this show the power of citizen participation,” Nerez said. “When communities stand with law enforcement, we create stronger, safer shores for all.”

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