PCG, PDEA intercept drug-laden vessel near Mindoro

On Monday, February 24, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) prevented a vessel suspected of carrying illegal drugs from entering Philippine waters.

The unnamed vessel was intercepted outside the Philippines' exclusive economic zone near Mindoro's coast on Sunday amid heavy weather and rough seas.

Due to operational security, no further details about the vessel or its origin were disclosed.

PCG Commandant Adm. Ronnie Gil Gavan highlighted the success of this operation as a testament to interagency collaboration in combating illegal drugs.

The PCG also recently completed an 11-day training provided by the Japan Coast Guard to enhance maritime law enforcement capabilities, focusing on initial investigation and arrest techniques.