SHABU MARKET STEADY: PDEA-6 tightens security ahead of holidays

By: Jennifer P. Rendon 

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)-6 said the price and supply of illegal drugs, particularly shabu or crystal meth, in Western Visayas remain “stable” amid the merrymaking season.

“As of December 9, 2019, the price of shabu per gram is still at P8,500 to P9,000 in Iloilo,” PDEA spokesperson Shey Tanaleon said.

Tanaleon said “while there are unconfirmed reports of 50% (discount) or ‘buy 1, take 1’ promo for shabu, PDEA-6 continues to monitor anti-illegal drug activities and have subjected the said update for validation.”

This holiday season, PDEA-6 tightened security in sea and airports by deploying K-9 units and agents.

The agency has nine K-9 units in the region – two each in Aklan, Iloilo, and Bacolod City and one each in Antique, Capiz, and Guimaras.

“We continuously do random paneling and inspections during major festivities in Western Visayas,” Tanaleon said.

Meanwhile, PDEA-6 monitoring indicated that the volume of illegal drugs entering Iloilo remains the same although the holiday season could push demand.

“However, with the upcoming holiday season, it cannot be discounted na tataas, but these may come from Bacolod,” Tanaleon said.

On the other hand, illegal drugs supply in Bacolod City and parts on Negros Occidental most likely originated from Cebu, she said.

Relatedly, the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) said it would also monitor the illegal drugs trade not only during the Holidays but in the advent of the Ati-Atihan and Dinagyang festivals in Kalibo, Aklan and Iloilo City, respectively.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Joem Malong, PRO-6 spokesperson, said they are also validating that prices of shabu have dropped in the region.

On top of shabu, Malong said they are also keeping an eye on the possible entry of party drugs.