Photo: Luis R Villacarlos
IN a significant display of its commitment to eradicating illegal narcotics, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) successfully destroyed approximately P4.56 billion worth of dangerous drugs on March 24, 2026.
The massive drug haul, weighing over 1,136 kilograms of solid and 657 milliliters of liquid illegal substances, was disposed of through thermal decomposition at the Integrated Waste Management Inc. (IWMI) facility in Barangay Aguado.
The destruction event was a testament to the government’s dedication to transparency and accountability, with Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic C. Remulla gracing the occasion as the Guest of Honor. Key representatives from various law enforcement agencies, the Department of Justice (DOJ), non-government organizations (NGOs), media partners, and local barangay officials were also present to witness the proceedings. This multi-sectoral attendance underscored the collaborative effort required in the nation’s ongoing fight against illegal drugs.
Among the significant quantities of drugs destroyed were 555.2393 kilograms of methamphetamine hydrochloride (Shabu), 442.9399 kilograms of marijuana, 117.3860 kilograms of cocaine, and smaller amounts of MDMA (ecstasy), ephedrine, and ketamine. The inventory also included liquid substances like amphetamine and liquid meth, along with assorted expired medicines. Notably, the disposed substances included over 43,000 grams of high-grade marijuana and more than 102,000 grams of cocaine, which were recovered from Palawan’s shorelines between late last year and early this year.
PDEA Director General Undersecretary Isagani R. Nerez emphasized the agency’s firm commitment to preventing maritime drug smuggling and commended coastal communities for their integrity in surrendering recovered floating drugs. He assured the public that the destruction process, conducted under strict security protocols and within a high-capacity incinerator, ensures the permanent elimination of these dangerous substances beyond recovery.
“PDEA is relentless not only in seizing these substances but also in ensuring that once they are taken off the streets, they are permanently destroyed,” DG Nerez stated, highlighting that these quarterly destruction activities are conducted in full public view to uphold public trust and eliminate any risk of drug recycling. This initiative aligns with the “Bagong Pilipinas” vision, prioritizing integrity, accountability, and decisive governance. PDEA also acknowledged the swift action of Regional Trial Courts in resolving drug cases, enabling timely evidence disposal, and expressed gratitude to partner agencies and communities for their steadfast support. Similar destruction events are ongoing across PDEA’s regional offices nationwide.
