P6.8 Million Worth of Shabu Discovered Off Sta. Cruz Coast

Two fishermen discovered a package suspected to contain one kilogram of shabu valued at P6.8 million off the coast of Barangay Pinipin, Sta. Cruz, Ilocos Sur, on June 10, 2025.

The fishermen were identified as 38-year-old Ridel Cabalbag Callejo, who lives with his partner, and 65-year-old Ludivico Cabalbag Ruiz, both residents of Barangay Pinipin, Sta. Cruz.

The illegal drugs were found floating approximately 15 nautical miles from the shoreline while the fishermen were using a motorized banca.

The package contained small shells known as Gabilan, embedded both inside and outside the packaging, with no identifiable markings.

The fishermen promptly turned over the package to authorities at the Sta. Cruz Municipal Police Station.