Major Drug Bust in Occidental Mindoro Nets Chinese Nationals and P5.8 Billion in Shabu
In a significant anti-narcotics operation, authorities have apprehended two Chinese nationals connected to the recovery of illegal drugs worth billions of pesos in Occidental Mindoro. The arrest occurred on March 10, 2026, following a dramatic incident where a speedboat carrying the suspects ran aground along the coastal area of Barangay Harrison in Paluan town.
Follow-Up Operation Leads to Arrests
According to a report from the Philippine Army, the arrest was the result of a coordinated follow-up operation conducted by the 203rd Infantry (Bantay Kapayapaan) Brigade and troops from the 76th Infantry (Victrix) Battalion. The two Chinese nationals were found aboard the distressed speedboat, which had become stranded on the coast.
Authorities noted that the suspects exhibited suspicious behavior, refusing assistance from local residents despite their predicament. When uniformed Philippine Army personnel approached, the individuals attempted to flee, prompting their immediate apprehension.
Massive Drug Haul Discovered
Recovered from the ill-fated vessel were several sacks containing suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as shabu. Initial reports suggested the haul weighed approximately two tons, with an estimated street value of P17 billion. However, the Philippine Army later clarified, based on information from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), that the seized drugs actually weigh around 860 kilograms, valued at P5.8 billion.
In a further development, continuing search operations in the vicinity led to the discovery of an additional 30 packs of shabu, each estimated to weigh one kilogram. These packs, believed to be part of the same smuggling operation, are expected to increase the total volume and value of the confiscated illegal substances.
Additional Apprehensions Made
The operation also resulted in the arrest of two Filipino nationals from Nasugbu, Batangas, who were aboard a twin-engine rubber boat seen approaching the area. According to their statements, they were hired by an individual they believed to be the owner of the grounded speedboat to locate and rescue the two Chinese nationals.
All apprehended individuals have been turned over to appropriate law enforcement authorities for thorough investigation and legal processing. This operation underscores ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the Philippines, particularly in coastal regions vulnerable to smuggling activities.
