07/10/2026
TWO KOREAN NATIONALS ARRESTED IN PAMPANGA DRUG BUST; β±1 MILLION KETAMINE SEIZED
Under the leadership of PGen Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Chief, Philippine National Police (PNP), authorities arrested two Korean nationals in a buy-bust operation that led to the seizure of around 200 grams of suspected ketamine wiith Standard Drug Price of β±1,000,000.00 in Clark Freeport Zone, Mabalacat City, Pampanga, early Tuesday, October 6.
The operation was conducted by the PDEA Regional Special Enforcement Team, PDEA Pampanga Provincial Office, and Mabalacat City Police Station. Aside from the suspected illegal drugs, authorities recovered buy-bust money and other non-drug items.
The two suspects, both Korean nationals, are under the custody of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for proper disposition and appropriate proceedings.
Chief PNP PGen Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said the operation reflects the importance of close coordination among law enforcement agencies, particularly in addressing the movement of illegal drugs across different areas.
βHindi tayo dapat maging kampante. When there is credible information and an opportunity to stop illegal drugs from reaching more people, our units must act promptly and within the law. At the same time, we make sure that every operation is properly documented and that the rights of those involved are respected,β PGen Nartatez said.
The operation forms part of the PNPβs implementation of its Focused Agenda, particularly through Enhanced Managing Police Operations (EMPO), which emphasizes timely action, proper coordination, and adherence to established procedures. It also supports the national governmentβs continuing efforts under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to address the illegal drug problem through coordinated law enforcement and lawful enforcement operations.
The PNP said it will continue working with partner agencies to prevent the movement of illegal drugs while ensuring that police operations remain guided by law, proper procedure, and respect for individual rights, consistent with the vision of βBagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.β
(PNP-PIO)