Police Discovers Hi-Tech Shabu Laboratory in Catanduanes

A ‘hi-tech’ shabu laboratory was discovered by the joint efforts of the Philippine National Police Region 5 and the Philippine Army in Virac, Catanduanes. The shabu lab was located in Brgy Palta Small. Provincial Public Safety Company Commander Chief Insp. Charles De Leon said a search warrant was issued following intelligence reports from informants on the location of the suspected lab. A drug suspect-turned-informant revealed to the police that the laboratory was his source of narcotics in Tabaco, Albay. De Leon also added that barangay officials claimed that the laboratory was run and overseen by Chinese nationals. Angelica Balmadrid, owner of the real property, said a certain Jason Gonzalez Uy rented the area. Authorities recovered several equipment and chemicals used in shabu labs. Regional Director Sr. Supt. Melvin Ramon Buenafe described the findings as ‘hi-tech.’ Earlier inspections of the police into the property have been denied by caretakers Lorenzo Penera. Another instance saw a certain Paulo Uy arrive at the property, who also halted police from entering the facilities. Since the discovery, the authorities have arrested the caretaker Penera. They will conduct a follow up operation on the laboratory.