Manila: The Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO-6) is trying to find out more information about PHP816 million worth of shabu seized at Calapan Port in Oriental Mindoro last week. The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) led the operation on March 21.

According to Philippines News Agency, a 43-year-old male suspect from Oton, Iloilo, was arrested during a random inspection and K-9 sweep, which revealed the drugs hidden in the compartment of his vehicle. PRO-6 director Brig. Gen. Jack Wanky said in a media interview on Monday that they are coordinating with counterparts in Mimaropa for a possible interview and debriefing to determine if the drugs were intended for Panay and Negros Islands.

Wanky emphasized the importance of identifying the suspect’s accomplices, suppliers, and financiers. Given the large quantity of shabu, the suspect is considered a high-value target. The massive drug haul has raised concerns but also motivated the Philippine National Police and other law enforcement agencies to strengthen their cooperation in combating drug trafficking.

He noted that the operation confirmed PDEA’s assessment that drug syndicates have significant supplies and are attempting to flood the market to recover. Authorities also confiscated a sedan, mobile phone, and transport documents from the suspect, identified only as ‘Cris.’