Authorities intercepted approximately P19.2 million worth of suspected high-grade marijuana, or kush, during a routine maritime patrol near Sabina Shoal in the West Philippine Sea on Monday.
The operation was a joint effort between the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), and the Philippine Navy.
Acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. reported that Navy personnel discovered a black duffle bag drifting at sea.
Upon inspection, the bag was found to contain 32 heat-sealed plastic packs filled with dried buds of suspected marijuana, weighing roughly 16 kilograms.
The confiscated items were transported to a Philippine Navy facility in Puerto Princesa City for documentation and inventory, conducted in coordination with the PDEA Palawan provincial office.
“It was a clear demonstration of the unity among our law enforcement and defense agencies working hand in hand to protect our people and preserve the integrity of our borders,” Nartatez said in a statement.
PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño emphasized the importance of inter-agency cooperation in securing the country’s maritime routes against drug trafficking.
Authorities are currently investigating the origin of the shipment.
This recovery follows a series of similar maritime drug finds, including a major seizure of illegal drugs worth P8.8 billion found floating off Northern Luzon in June.
The PNP and PDEA have vowed to intensify surveillance and joint patrols in coastal areas to prevent the entry of illegal substances into the country.
