In a major blow to international drug trafficking, the Philippine National Police (PNP), in close coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC), successfully intercepted thousands of ecstasy tablets at a cargo handling area in Clark Freeport Zone, Mabalacat City, Pampanga.
The operation, conducted on the morning of January 2, 2026, resulted in the seizure of approximately 4,124 tablets of suspected ecstasy with an estimated standard drug price of ₱7,040,125.00.
Acting on intelligence regarding the misuse of international logistics channels, authorities flagged two inbound parcels originating from Innsbruck, Austria. The shipments, which were declared as ordinary goods, were destined for delivery to Davao City.
Upon inspection at approximately 8:00 AM, the Clark Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (CRK-IADITG) uncovered the concealed narcotics. The seized evidence was immediately secured and turned over to the PDEA for proper disposition in accordance with Republic Act No. 9165 (The Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002).
Under the command of PNP Acting Chief PLTGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., the PNP has intensified its “Focused Agenda,” specifically prioritizing Enhanced Managing Police Operations. This strategy mandates sustained vigilance at critical transit points, such as air cargo facilities, to neutralize illegal substances before they reach local communities. “This interception highlights the strength of inter-agency efforts in protecting the country’s entry points and disrupting international drug trafficking activities,” said PLTGEN Nartatez Jr. “Kapag sabay-sabay na kumikilos ang mga ahensya ng pamahalaan, mas napipigilan ang pagpasok ng ilegal na droga sa bansa.”
The Acting Chief further emphasized that the PNP remains steadfast in its duty to protect the public from the scourge of illegal drugs, following the direct mandates of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
“For the PNP, preventing illegal drugs from reaching the streets is a clear duty that we continue to uphold through constant monitoring and enforcement,” PLTGEN Nartatez Jr. added. “Responsibilidad ng PNP na pigilan ang ilegal na droga bago pa ito makarating sa mamamayan, at hindi kami titigil sa pagtupad ng tungkuling ito.”
The operation reaffirms the vision of a “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas,” characterized by service that is fast, honest, and felt by every Filipino.
