AUTHORITIES intercepted more than P38.6 million worth of methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as shabu, in a drug interdiction operation at parcel facilities in Pasay City, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
The operation, conducted on March 31, targeted the Central Mail Exchange Center and a private courier hub, where operatives flagged three inbound parcels later found to have been abandoned.
Members of the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group discovered approximately 5,691 grams of suspected shabu inside the packages, with an estimated street value of P38,698,800.
Investigators said the parcels were shipped from Canada, Pakistan, and Zambia and were addressed to different consignees, including individuals with Filipino and foreign-linked identities.
The confiscated substances were turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for proper handling and disposition.
Authorities are conducting follow-up investigations to identify and pursue charges against the intended recipients and senders for violations of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
PNP Chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. commended the operating units, stressing the persistent threat posed by drug syndicates using logistics and courier systems to transport illegal substances.
He said the PNP will continue to intensify monitoring of mail and cargo channels and strengthen coordination with partner agencies to prevent the entry of illegal drugs into the country. (TPM/SunStar Philippines)