By: Jim Lloyd Dongiapon
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported on Wednesday, August 10, that their K9 Field Operating Unit in Southwestern Mindanao, together with the Philippine National Police (PNP), intercepted some 500 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride, or “shabu,” at the cargo area of an airline company at Zamboanga International Airport in Zamboanga City on Monday, August 8.
Coast Guard Working Dog (CGWD) named Bunny detected the contraband, which has an estimated market value of ₱3.4 million.
As per the initial investigation, the suspicious package was sent by a certain Farhana Maddih from Maluso, Basilan, and was supposed to be received by a Dayana Ismael from PHILCOA, Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City.
It also included items used to conceal the contraband, such as packs of dried fish and a plastic container containing “bubuk,” a native delicacy made of roasted coconut meat.
PCG said it has already turned over the confiscated package to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region IX for further investigation and proper disposition.
Meanwhile, Zamboanga City Mayor John Dalipe lauded the PCG, PNP, and PDEA for successfully intercepting the contraband.