SBMA men in P4.6B drug bust promoted

SENATOR Richard Gordon has commended the operatives of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority and the Presidential Anti-Smuggling Group for breaking the backbone of a suspected drug ring that tried to smuggle out of Subic Freeport some P4.62-billion worth of illegal drugs.

In a related development, Arreza said the SBMA Board has approved a one step promotion and commendations for members of the SBMA LED, who first intercepted the eight boxes being taken out by primary suspect Anthony Ong.

He said that SBMA officials recognized the critical role of Subic law enforcers in intercepting Ang on Sunday night at Subic’s SRF compound. In chance interview, Gordon relayed his kudos to SBMA Administrator Armand Arreza, and praised the SBMA law enforcers who first intercepted the drug shipment, saying they personified the “true spirit of Subic, which is anchored on vigilance and volunteerism.”

“Without the diligence of these brave men, the menace of illegal drugs would have spread further and eroded our society more,” Gordon said.

Gordon had earlier commended PASG operatives and the SBMA in his May 28 privilege speech, and gave credit to the SBMA Law Enforcement Department for being instrumental in foiling drug smuggling in Subic, despite bribery attempts made by the suspect.

“We can see how profitable this operation is,” he said. “If somebody can offer P50 million, it would be difficult for some people out there to refuse such a tempting offer.” Alvin Murcia - Journal online