ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — November 11, 2026 — Authorities seized approximately 67 kilograms of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as shabu, with an estimated standard drug value of ₱455.6 million, and arrested four alleged high-value individuals, including a woman, during a major coordinated anti-illegal-drug operation in Barangay Mercedes, Zamboanga City, on Wednesday night.
The operation, dubbed Oplan Shadow Ice, was conducted along Arcillas Street, Zone 4, Barangay Mercedes, through the coordinated efforts of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and various units of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
The four individuals were identified by authorities as high-value targets. However, their complete identities, specific roles in the suspected drug operation, and the formal charges they may face have yet to be fully disclosed in the information initially released.
The operation involved PDEA Region NCR, PDEA ZAMBAZULTA, the PDEA Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Office, the PDEA Zamboanga City Office, and the PDEA Region 7 Cebu Province Office. They were supported by the Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO), its City Drug Enforcement Unit (CDEU), and other participating law-enforcement units.
The seizure of approximately 67 kilograms of suspected shabu, valued at ₱455.6 million based on the standard drug valuation, represents a significant drug interception in the city. The volume of the confiscated substance also underscores the continuing threat posed by large-scale drug trafficking operations and the need for sustained coordination among law-enforcement agencies.
Zamboanga City Mayor Khymer Olaso and Congressman Jerry “Totong” Perez were also present at the scene of the operation. Their presence highlighted the attention of local government officials to the continuing campaign against illegal drugs and the importance of institutional cooperation in addressing public safety concerns.
Authorities have yet to provide additional details regarding the source and intended destination of the seized drugs, the alleged network behind the shipment, and whether further arrests are expected as investigators pursue the case.
The confiscated substance remains subject to the required examination and documentation procedures. The arrested individuals, meanwhile, are entitled to due process and are presumed innocent unless proven guilty before a court of law.
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Beyond the substantial monetary value of the seizure, the operation raises important questions about the movement of large quantities of illegal drugs into and through Zamboanga City. Authorities will need to establish the supply chain, identify other individuals potentially involved, and determine whether the arrested suspects are connected to a wider drug distribution network.
The investigation is expected to continue as PDEA and the police work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the operation.