Fishermen find PHP279M worth of shabu in Ilocos Sur seas

Fishermen in Ilocos Sur discovered 60 packs of suspected crystal methamphetamine hydrochloride floating at sea between Monday and Wednesday, with a total value estimated to exceed PHP279.65 million.

The latest find on Wednesday evening included 18 packs worth an estimated PHP117 million found by a fisherman off Magsingal shore, around 42 nautical miles from the coast; another discovery was made in Barangay Villamar, Caoayan, where fishermen found a black sack containing 17.93 kilos of shabu valued at PHP121.8 million.

Earlier discoveries involved 24 packs valued at PHP162.65 million in San Juan Bay and another 18 packs off Caoayan, all bearing Chinese markings.

A forensic examination confirmed their illegal nature, prompting police to commend fisherfolk for their prompt action and urge others along the coastline to report similar findings immediately.

The Philippine National Police Maritime Group has begun inspecting waters off these areas, while Ilocos Sur authorities have intensified monitoring and surveillance efforts following the latest discoveries. The provincial government is also considering rewarding fishermen who surrender contraband drugs.