Pangasinan: Some PHP3 billion worth of suspected illegal drugs were recovered off the coasts of Bolinao and Agno in Pangasinan on Friday, a day after similar items were recovered in the same areas.

According to Philippines News Agency, the report from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) - Pangasinan detailed that a total of 452 vacuum-sealed packs, each containing one kilo of suspected shabu, were recovered by fishers in Barangay Balingasay in Bolinao and Barangay Boboy in Agno. These items have since been handed over to authorities.

On Thursday, fishers discovered approximately PHP1 billion worth of illegal drugs placed in sacks off the coasts of Bolinao, Agno, and Bani towns. Pangasinan Governor Ramon Guico III, in a statement on Saturday, commended the fisherfolk, PDEA, Philippine Coast Guard, and the Philippine National Police for the recovery of the illegal drugs, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and immediate action in the fight against illegal drugs.

Governor Guico also called for a deeper investigation to identify the sources and hold those involved in the drug trade accountable. PDEA Pangasinan officer Rechie Camacho mentioned in an interview that law enforcement agencies are still working to determine the origin of the illegal drugs.

Officer Camacho urged fisherfolk and the public to promptly report and surrender suspicious shipments to authorities, assuring them of rewards from PDEA and other agencies for their cooperation.