P1.3 billion marijuana, shabu seized

MANILA, Philippines — About P1.2 billion worth of marijuana and methamphetamine hydrochloride valued at P142.8 million have been seized in Manila and Quezon City.

Customs and anti-narcotics agents have arrested a broker representative over the 800 kilos of marijuana from Thailand found at the Manila International Container Port.

“We are strengthening inspections and working closely with our partner agencies to prevent the entry of illegal drugs through our ports,” Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said.

In Quezon City, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) yesterday seized 20.5 kilos of shabu from two alleged members of a drug ring in an anti-narcotics operation in Barangay Sto. Domingo.

PDEA director general Isagani Nerez said the agency would continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations and coordinate with law enforcement units and the community to ensure that those who profit from the illegal drug trade are brought to justice.

In Taguig, police raided on Tuesday a house in Barangay Sta. Ana where they found around 27.5 grams of shabu worth P187,000. –  Emmanuel Tupas