The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and Philippine National Police (PNP) seized an estimated ₱6.6 billion worth of shabu from a clandestine laboratory discovered inside a warehouse in Barangay Veinte Reales, Valenzuela City. During the joint operation, more than 906 kilos of shabu worth approximately ₱6.16 billion were recovered, as well as more than 64 liters of liquid methamphetamine worth an estimated ₱436 million. Although no arrests were made in the raid itself, authorities confirmed that there are identified personalities who are currently being sought.
According to the investigation, the laboratory was traced after a buy-bust operation in which a high-value individual was arrested. As the suspect allegedly fled to the warehouse, the operatives conducted a hot pursuit that resulted in the discovery of the facility. PDEA has reportedly been monitoring the target for a long time and noticed that he frequently visits the said location, which confirmed the suspicion of illegal operations in the area.
Isagani Nerez, Director General of PDEA, confirmed that the said laboratory is possibly connected to the previously raided facility in Binangonan, Rizal. The official added that syndicates usually abandon their laboratories when they sense the authorities approaching. Meanwhile, Elmer Ragay, chief of the PNP Drug Enforcement Group, said that cases have already been filed and a thorough manhunt is ongoing against others involved.
Also recovered from the warehouse were controlled precursors, essential chemicals, and laboratory equipment used in the manufacture of illegal drugs. PDEA is now identifying the source of the chemicals, which are believed to be linked to an international drug syndicate. The Valenzuela city government has also contacted the owner of the warehouse, who may have violated a local ordinance regarding the registration and declaration of tenants and incoming cargo.
The local government admitted that it is difficult to monitor the estimated 15,000 warehouses and commercial establishments in the city, but assured that inspection and monitoring will be intensified to prevent similar incidents. Investigations into the syndicate's transportation routes, local contacts, and supply chain are ongoing. The confiscated illegal drugs are set to be destroyed in accordance with existing PDEA policies while operations against those responsible continue.
