14-3-2024 (MANILA) The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has announced plans to intensify monitoring efforts in the ongoing battle against illegal drug smuggling.
PCG Commandant Ronnie Gil Gavan issued the directive following the recent recovery of suspected cocaine with an estimated value of 122.7 million pesos (equivalent to about 2.2 million U.S. dollars) in the waters surrounding central and southern Philippines.
Under Gavan’s orders, PCG personnel are tasked with collaborating closely with other law enforcement agencies and bolstering connections with local fisherfolk networks. This coordinated approach aims to enhance anti-illegal drug operations and establish a more robust monitoring system to detect and deter suspicious or unauthorized activities at sea.
In the Philippines, a common tactic employed by illegal drug smugglers involves disposing of contraband at sea, where it may wash up on seaside communities or become ensnared in the fishing nets of local fisherfolk. In one notable incident in 2018, police recovered 25 bricks of cocaine that had been retrieved by fishermen.
In response to the escalating issue, the Philippine National Police has announced plans to enhance coordination with international counterparts and increase patrols to combat drug smuggling.
