Quezon city: The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) announced on Thursday the successful seizure of PHP180 million worth of illegal drugs and the arrest of 109 individuals, including nine drug den owners, during a concentrated weeklong anti-drug campaign.

According to Philippines News Agency, PDEA Director General Isagani Nerez detailed that from November 14 to 21, authorities confiscated 5,787.50 grams of crystalline shabu, alongside substantial quantities in liquid form, and 24,270 grams of cocaine in Barangay Tagusao, Quezon, Palawan. The operation also led to the destruction of 63,650 fully-grown marijuana plants and fruiting tops, primarily sourced from the Cordillera, Ilocos Sur, and Sultan Kudarat regions. Additionally, significant quantities of precursor chemicals, including 63,205 ml of hydrochloric acid and 179,500 ml of acetone and toluene, were seized, disrupting the potential manufacture of millions of pesos worth of shabu.

Among those apprehended were 69 pushers, 17 drug den visitors, nine drug den owners, three possessors, nine drug den employees, a laboratory chemist, and a laborer. Each individual will face charges for violating Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Director General Nerez emphasized the ongoing commitment to combatting drug syndicates, stating that there is no safe haven for illegal activities in the Philippines.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported the seizure of PHP19.28 million worth of illegal drugs and the arrest of six high-value individuals from Tuesday night to Wednesday morning. Operations in Davao del Norte, Camarines Sur, Pasay City, the Cordillera region, and Cebu City collectively resulted in the confiscation of significant quantities of shabu and marijuana plants. These efforts highlight the collaborative efforts between the PDEA and PNP in tackling drug-related crimes across the country.