Vessel suspected of carrying illegal drugs denied PH entry – PCG
A vessel suspected of carrying a “large volume of illegal drugs” was barred from entering the country by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), it was bared on Monday, Feb. 24.
According to a press statement released by the PCG, the unnamed vessel was outside the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the Philippines but approaching the coast of Mindoro on Sunday, Feb. 23, when it was turned back by coast guard and PDEA officers.
“In line with President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr.’s anti-illegal drugs campaign, the Philippine Coast Guard and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency have collaborated in averting the entry of a vessel suspected to be loaded with a large volume of illegal drugs outside the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) closest to the coast of Mindoro yesterday, 23 February 2025,” the statement read.
“Amid heavy weather and rough seas, the joint PCG-PDEA operatives ensured the denial of entry of the subject vessel within the Philippine territory,” it added.
However, “due to operational security,” the PCG refused to disclose the identity of the vessel and where it came from before trying to enter the country.
PCG Commandant, Adm. Ronnie Gil Gavan said the operation underscored the importance of interagency collaboration to eradicate the drug menace in the country.
“The success of this operation highlighted the effectiveness of the national government’s anti-illegal drugs campaign and law enforcement operations within our maritime jurisdiction to prevent the proliferation of illegal drugs in the country,” he emphasized.
Japan trains PCG on law enforcement procedures
Meanwhile, the PCG enhanced its capabilities to enforce maritime law after undergoing an 11-day training provided by the Japan Coast Guard.
The exercise held from Feb. 10 to 21 focused on initial investigation training and arresting technique training, among others.
PCG personnel were provided with technical guidance by Japan’s Mobile Cooperation Team (MCT) on crime scene photography and methods of arrest.