By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan

NO LET-UP. Law enforcers make an inventory of at least 15 kg. of suspected shabu seized during a checkpoint operation in Maharlika Highway in Barangay Mahayag, Catbalogan City, Samar on April 16, 2025. The driver of the vehicle carrying the illegal drugs, valued at PHP102 million, was arrested. (Photo courtesy of PNP-HPG)

MANILA – The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) said it has confiscated PHP147.25 million worth of illegal drugs in operations from April 11 to 18 nationwide.

In a statement on Tuesday, the agency said 69 operations resulted in the arrest of 79 individuals and the seizure of 19.28 kg. of suspected shabu, 11 kg. of dried marijuana leaves, 49,460 pieces of marijuana plants, 1.37 grams of kush (high-grade marijuana), 984 grams of ketamine, and 8,760 milliliters of ephedrine during the period.

PDEA Director General, Undersecretary Isagani Nerez, said their operatives are working closely with the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other law enforcement agencies in carrying out strategic buy-busts, interdictions, marijuana eradication, and search operations in both urban and rural areas.

“These results are the product of relentless intelligence work, surveillance, and inter-agency coordination,” Nerez said.

“Every arrest made and every gram seized represents a community made safer. But more importantly, these numbers are a clear reminder that we must remain vigilant and unwavering in our efforts.”

PDEA lauded the efforts of its regional offices, particularly its Cordillera office for its massive marijuana eradication campaigns; Mimaropa office for intercepting illegal drugs in Puerto Princesa and Calapan; and Calabarzon office for dismantling syndicates operating in Cavite and Rizal.

It also said interdiction operations at key ports, airports, and borders continue to yield high-value targets, preventing the inflow of synthetic drugs and precursors like ephedrine.

The agency said the campaign against illegal drugs goes beyond “numbers and statistics” and highlights the welfare of communities saved from the grip of drug addiction, families reunited, and lives rebuilt towards the realization of the “Bagong Pilipinas” vision.

It urged the public to continue supporting the campaign by reporting illegal drug activities through PDEA’s Operation Private Eye Hotline 0917-867-7332 and social media platforms through “Isumbong Mo Sa PDEA” Facebook Page; PDEA Hotlines 0917-867-7332; and 0931-027-8212. (PNA)