P13.3-B shabu seized in Batangas town

LOCAL Government Secretary Benhur Abalos announced the interception of a van laden with P13.3 billion worth of high-grade shabu in Alitagtag town in Batangas on Monday.

Abalos said in a press briefing that the illegal drugs were seized from a van that was flagged down at a checkpoint set up by the Philippine National Police-at around 8 a.m. on April 15.

“This record-setting P13.3-billion drug haul was concrete proof that the government’s policy of bloodless and preventive-centered campaign against illegal drugs is on the right track,” said Abalos.

He expressed optimism the country’s war against illegal drugs can be won through an effective policing and intelligence gathering along with public support without resorting to violence and bloodbath.

Abalos said that while the government has been relentless in its fight against illegal drugs, it has focused on preventing the use of banned substances and rehabilitating drug users.

“We have been actively waging a war against drugs through our BIDA Program which focuses more on the prevention side while crafting policies on rehabilitation and law enforcement,” he added.

The previous biggest drug seizure recorded was P11 billion which was seized in Infanta, Quezon, in March 2022, which also resulted in the arrest of at least 10 suspects who were riding in three vans.

“This could be the biggest drug haul in the country,” added Abalos, who was joined by PNP chief BGen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Assistant Secretary Renato Gumban, Batangas Gov. Hermilando Mandanas, PNP 4A Director BGen. Paul Kenneth Lucas, and other high-ranking police officials.

The DILG chief said that the apprehended suspect who was driving the van is under the custody of the PNP and will be charged with violation of Section 5 and 11 of Article 2 of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.

He likewise granted a spot promotion to team leader Cpt. Luis de Luna for his excellent work.

“On this day you are now promoted because of what you did, and through your courage and your dedication to your duty. You did not take any from the contents. Congratulations!” Abalos told de Luna.