Manila: The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) confiscated PHP139.79 million worth of illegal drugs in a series of nationwide operations conducted from August 22 to 29. The operations resulted in significant arrests and drug seizures that marked a concerted effort to combat illegal drug activities across the country.

According to Philippines News Agency, PDEA announced in a news release on Sunday that the weeklong crackdown included 60 operations which led to the arrest of 87 suspects. The operations culminated in the seizure of 20.14 kilograms of shabu, 3,170 fully grown marijuana plants, 2,700 seedlings, over 791 grams of dried marijuana leaves and kush, 1,155 ecstasy tablets, and 1.29 grams of ketamine.

Most of the marijuana plants were eradicated during operations in the Cordillera Administrative Region. Meanwhile, large volumes of shabu were intercepted in Metro Manila, Calabarzon, and Northern Mindanao, showcasing the widespread nature of the anti-drug efforts.

PDEA highlighted the operations as an example of "strengthened inter-agency collaboration" with the Philippine National Police and other law enforcement units. The agency also called upon the public to remain vigilant and to report any drug-related activities within their communities, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in their ongoing efforts to curb illegal drug trade.