P23-B in illegal drugs seized, 67k suspects nabbed in 55k drug ops in 2025 – PNP

The Philippine National Police (PNP) confiscated more than P23.5 billion in illegal drugs and arrested over 67,000 drug suspects in more than 55,000 operations in 2025 as part of its intelligence-driven anti-narcotics drive.

In a statement on Monday, the PNP said it conducted 55,843 anti-illegal drug operations nationwide from January 1 to December 31, 2025, with 67,223 drug suspects arrested.

The operations led to the seizure of over 3.28 tons of shabu, more than 10.79 tons of dried marijuana leaves, 3.37 million pieces of marijuana, 127,462 grams of marijuana kush, 157,586 grams of cocaine, and 556 grams of ecstasy with a total value of more than P23.5 billion.

PNP acting chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez said the figures reflected its sustained law enforcement operations based on accountability and respect for human rights.

“These accomplishments show that the PNP remains firm and focused in dismantling illegal drug networks, from high-value individuals down to street-level pushers,” Nartatez said.

“Malinaw po ang direktiba ng ating Pangulo – isang kampanyang bloodless, makatao, at mahigpit na ipinatutupad ang batas,” he added.

(The President’s directive is clear – a bloodless campaign that is humane and strictly enforces the law.)

The PNP noted that a significant portion of 2025’s anti-narcotics accomplishments came in the latter part of the year.

From August 26 to December 31, 2025, the PNP carried out 19,914 operations that led to the seizure of P11.3 billion in illegal drugs, or 45% of the total confiscations for 2025.

Nartatez credited the confiscations to the PNP’s intensified coordination, sharper intelligence gathering, and closer collaboration with communities.

“What we are seeing is the result of focused leadership, committed police work, and stronger cooperation with our communities. Kapag nagtutulungan ang pulis at mamamayan, mas nagiging epektibo ang laban kontra ilegal na droga,” he said.

(What we are seeing is the result of focused leadership, committed police work, and stronger cooperation with our communities. When the police and citizens work together, the fight against illegal drugs becomes more effective.)

Nartatez went on: “This is exactly what our PNP Focus Agenda calls for – clear priorities, consistent enforcement, and service that people can truly feel.”

He assured that the police force will step up its anti-illegal drugs campaign, with greater emphasis on preventive measures, community engagement, and the relentless pursuit of drug syndicates.

“We will not slow down. In 2026, expect a more aggressive yet responsible campaign – one that protects lives, upholds the rule of law, and strengthens public trust,” Nartatez added. — JMA, GMA Integrated News