Authorities seized nearly P279 million worth of shabu and arrested two Chinese nationals in a late-night buy-bust operation in Quezon City, dealing a major blow to illegal drug networks.
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), in coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP), confiscated around 41 kilograms of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride during the April 21, 2026 operation along Andrade Street in Barangay Balingasa.
Operatives from the PDEA Special Enforcement Service and the PDEA Regional Office–National Capital Region, working with the Quezon City Police District Drug Enforcement Unit, conducted the entrapment at about 10:20 p.m., leading to the arrest of suspects identified by their aliases “Aye,” 33, and “Mok,” 32.
The suspects, both Chinese nationals reportedly residing in General Trias, Cavite, were said to have previously worked as truck and ride-hailing drivers in Hong Kong.
Recovered from the operation were the illegal drugs packed in a paper bag and carton boxes, along with a Toyota Fortuner, a Hong Kong passport, a Hong Kong International Driving Permit, two mobile phones, and marked buy-bust money.
PDEA Director General Undersecretary Isagani Nerez described the operation as a significant disruption of large-scale drug trafficking.
“This successful operation underscores our unwavering commitment to dismantling drug networks that threaten our communities. The seizure of nearly Php 300 million worth of shabu is a major blow to illegal drug syndicates operating in the country,” Nerez said.
He also warned foreign nationals involved in the illegal drug trade: “We will not allow the Philippines to be used as a transshipment hub or market for illegal drugs. Regardless of nationality, those engaged in this activity will be pursued and held fully accountable under our laws.”
The suspects now face charges for violating Sections 5 and 11, Article II of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. If convicted, they could face life imprisonment and fines of up to Php 10 million.