Manila: The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) has seized 3.648 kilos of shabu and 60.31 grams of cannabis from various operating prison and penal farms nationwide under the leadership of Director General Gregorio Catapang Jr.

According to Philippines News Agency, the confiscated illegal substances from October 2023 to present came from five out of the seven operating prison and penal farms (OPPF). The New Bilibid Prison reported the highest seizure with 2166.2705 grams of shabu and 58.6001 grams of cannabis. Other facilities included Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm with 26.7488 grams of shabu; Leyte Regional Prison with 8.7621 grams of shabu; Davao Prison and Penal Farm with 410.2696 grams of shabu and 1.7140 grams of cannabis; and San Ramon Prison and Penal Farm with 1032.7887 grams of shabu.

No illegal drugs were found at the Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm and the Correctional Institution for Women. Director General Catapang emphasized that the seized drugs represent a concerted effort to curb the flow of illegal drugs into facilities meant for rehabilitation.

Catapang credited the success to enhanced monitoring and strict inspection protocols within BuCor facilities. Last year, BuCor acquired two full-body scanners to detect contraband items, enhancing security and transparency while eliminating the need for strip searches and manual cavity checks.

By rigorously screening incoming visitors in all OPPF, BuCor aims to reduce the chances of illegal substances reaching inmates. Catapang stated that this proactive approach is critical in reversing the trend of drug-related issues inside prisons.

All confiscated illegal drugs have been turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for proper disposition.