P489-M illegal drugs in Central Visayas burned

CEBU CITY — At least P489 million worth of illegal drugs were destroyed in a crematorium here on Thursday, Nov. 14.

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)-Central Visayas said these included 71 kilos and 832 grams of shabu, a kilo and a gram of cocaine, and 3 kilos and 376 grams of marijuana which were seized in separate operations conducted by the agency and the Philippine National Police in Cebu and Bohol.

At least 1.9 kilos of shabu and other illegal drugs worth P13.4 million were confiscated during operations in Bohol.

Expired medicines with no value were also burned.

Engr. Elbert Ebo, operator of the incinerator of Dychango Group of Companies, explained that the illegal drugs were destroyed through thermal decomposition or thermolysis, which involves breaking down chemical compounds with the use of tremendous heat.

Lt. Col. Norman Nuez, spokesman of the Bohol Provincial Police Office, said Thursday’s operation highlighted the importance of joint efforts by stakeholders and agencies in eliminating drugs from communities.

For PDEA-7 Acting Regional Director Alex Tablate, the destruction was an indication that no evidence recovered during operations was reused.

He added that pieces of evidence confiscated were secured and heavily locked so that only the PDEA regional director, the chief chemist, and the evidence custodian can access these.

The destruction process and procedures were witnessed by police officials, representatives of the Department of Justice, civil society, and other stakeholders.

Judge Ruelo Saladaga of the Regional Trial Court Branch 69 in Lapu Lapu City said the operation “serves as a testament to our nation’s unwavering commitment to justice and the rule of law.”

“As a member of the judiciary, I have witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of illegal drugs on our society. It erodes the basic fabric of our communities, breeds crimes, destroys families, and takes lives. In helping to combat this insidious problem, I truly commend the PDEA for its relentless efforts and dedication to uphold the law and protect our citizens,” he said.

He added that while PDEA plays a crucial role as the lead agency in the campaign against illegal drugs, the effectiveness and the legality of the operations also depend on adherence to procedural safeguards and the preservation of the integrity of the evidence.