During a press conference on Friday, March 13, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed that authorities have seized an estimated 910 kilograms of shabu from a speedboat that ran aground in Sitio Agbalite, Barangay Harrison, Paluan, Occidental Mindoro.

The recovery followed a joint pursuit operation by the Philippine Army’s 76th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine National Police (PNP), and local barangay officials.

According to Secretary Remulla, 43 sacks of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride tested positive in initial field testing, showing purity exceeding 90 percent.

Four suspects were arrested in connection with the operation, including two Chinese nationals, Shi Bin and Xing Xing Zhun, who reportedly arrived in the Philippines on March 5. Two Filipino accomplices were also detained.

When their speedboat ran aground, the two Chinese suspects fled into nearby forested areas but were apprehended with the assistance of Army personnel and the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU).

Authorities also recovered items from the speedboat, including a Starlink modem, hand flares, batteries, and a global satellite phone. Some markings on the sacks suggest they may have been manufactured in Vietnam, though this remains under verification.

The DILG also revealed that a female Chinese national, believed to be the alleged leader of the operation, is under active pursuit by authorities. Local officials Jonjon Hernandez and Frial Francisco are assisting in the ongoing investigation.