Manila: The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has seized PHP328.58 million worth of illegal drugs during weeklong operations from Sept. 12 to 19. In a statement Thursday night, PDEA Director General Isagani Nerez reported that agents conducted 74 anti-illegal drug operations, resulting in the arrest of 105 individuals and the confiscation of 47.8 kg. of shabu, 14,710 marijuana plants, 3 kg. of dried marijuana leaves, and 1,000 seedlings.

According to Philippines News Agency, of the 105 arrested suspects, 52 were identified as pushers, 21 as drug den visitors or clients, 16 as drug den owners or maintainers, 8 as possessors, 7 as drug den employees, and one as a courier. A significant operation took place at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 in Pasay City on Sept. 14, which led to the confiscation of 5,894 grams of shabu. Another large-scale buy-bust operation in Sta. Clara, Batangas City on Sept. 16 yielded 40,000 grams of shabu. Additional notable seizures included 515 grams in Tagum City, Davao del Norte, and 510 grams in Dauis, Bohol.

Nerez emphasized that the recent success was achieved through collaboration with the Philippine National Police and other law enforcement agencies, highlighting a whole-of-nation approach. He assured continued efforts to protect communities with operations that are sharper, smarter, and synchronized through inter-agency collaboration.

The operations underscore PDEA's comprehensive strategy targeting all levels of the illegal drug trade, from street-level distribution to large-scale supply networks and local cultivation sites. Nerez also urged Filipinos to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities in their communities.