Fishermen have recovered more blocks of shabu floating at sea in Ilocos Sur, bringing the total worth of the haul to over P500 million, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Fishermen found five more blocks of shabu floating in the waters of the following areas:
- Cabugao (2 blocks)
- San Esteban (2 blocks)
- Magsingal (1 block)
- Sta. Cruz (1 block)
In total, 85 blocks have been recovered since late June 2024, with 81 testing positive for shabu.
"Ang total net na kilo nila is around 80,961.40 grams. Yung apat na nahanap kahapon iki-kilo ngayon at ite-test rin for shabu content," PCOL. Darnell Dulnuan, Acting Provincial Director of Ilocos Sur Police Provincial Office (PPO), said.
The PNP said an active investigation is being conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and a newly formed task group.
The Provincial Police Office has reached out to the national government for additional air and water assets but has yet to receive a response.
In the meantime, large boats from the local government units (LGUs) are being used for continuous sea patrols as part of the ongoing investigation.
REWARDS
Meanwhile, 12 fishermen who turned over the blocks of shabu voluntarily to authorities were rewarded P50,000 each.
"Our resolution: recognition and rewards to the fishermen of the municipalities of San Juan, Sta. Maria, Magsingal, Ilocos Sur," Provincial Board Member Efren Rafanan said in a speech.
PDEA also provided a reward of P5,000 for each block or pack of shabu surrendered.
More rewards from the LGUs are expected, according to the PPO.
