Several fishermen from Pangasinan have come forward to share how they discovered massive quantities of floating methamphetamine hydrochloride, or shabu, disguised as imported goods in the waters of the West Philippine Sea.
Since June 5, authorities have recovered 38 sacks of shabu, totaling an estimated 903 kilograms valued at over ₱6 billion, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Ordinary Heroes on the Sea
Fisherman Rodelito found the first sack of suspected drugs 20–35 nautical miles off Bolinao. Initially mistaking the items for regular cargo, he realized their true contents after noticing the white substance inside. “I recognized it from movies,” he said. He quickly reported it to local officials, who contacted the PDEA. His find alone weighed 56 kilos—worth over ₱380 million.
Two days later, Cornelio, another fisherman, came across a similar floating sack. Despite the temptation, he chose to surrender it to the police, saying, “Even though life is hard, I’ll never sell drugs.”
Father-and-son duo Darrel and John Lloyd discovered 56 sacks—around 96 kilograms—while sailing through the waters of Bani, Agno, and Suan. Aware of earlier reports, they knew it was illegal drugs. “We never thought of selling it. It would ruin our lives,” they said.
More Floating Finds and Possible Syndicate Links
In nearby Zambales, a group of fishermen led by “Randy” found more sacks they initially mistook for food donations. They too turned over their discovery and received a ₱1,000 token from their local government.
Authorities suspect that these drugs were thrown into Philippine waters for local contacts to retrieve using GPS trackers. Bad weather may have drifted them to Pangasinan and Ilocos Sur.
Investigators believe the shabu may have originated from the Golden Triangle—known for drug production—or be linked to the notorious Sam Gor syndicate, dubbed the “El Chapo of Asia’s” network.
According to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), this is the largest sea-based drug recovery in its history. The agency and the Philippine Coast Guard are ramping up patrols and urge coastal communities to report any further finds.
Laboratory tests will determine the value and possible rewards for the fishermen who surrendered the contraband.