Major Drug Bust Nets P13.6 Million in Narcotics
In a significant blow to illegal drug operations in Northern Luzon, Philippine authorities seized approximately 2,000 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of PHP13.6 million during a meticulously planned buy-bust operation. The operation took place on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, in Purok 4, Barangay Ilog-Malino, Bolinao, Pangasinan.
Arrests and Police Statements
The successful sting led to the apprehension of two high-value individuals, identified as a 44-year-old man and a 24-year-old woman. Both suspects are residents of Bolinao and are now detained at the Bolinao Municipal Police Station. The confiscated narcotics were promptly turned over to the PNP Drug Enforcement Group – Special Operations Unit 3 for thorough documentation and further investigation to trace the supply chain.
In a statement released on Thursday, November 13, 2025, the acting chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Lt. Gen. Melencio Nartatez Jr., hailed the operation as proof that the police's campaign against illegal drugs remains "steadfast and unrelenting." He emphasized that "Every successful interdiction not only weakens criminal networks but also protects countless lives from the harm caused by these dangerous substances."
Sustained Anti-Drug Campaign in Pangasinan
Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño, the PNP spokesperson, underscored the critical role of collaboration in this victory. He stated that the operation's success highlights the importance of proactive policing and sustained inter-agency collaboration. "The continued partnership between the PNP, PDEA (Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency), and local units proves that teamwork is our strongest weapon against illegal drugs, keeping every community safe," Tuaño affirmed.
This major seizure is part of a larger crackdown on narcotics in the Pangasinan province. It follows a massive discovery just last month, where 895 kilograms of shabu valued at nearly PHP6.1 billion were found in a residential house in Barangay Laois, Labrador, Pangasinan. That discovery was connected to a follow-up operation which also led to the arrest of a Chinese national and his Filipino driver in Bugallon, where 125 kg of shabu worth P850 million was confiscated.
