Why the Philippines remains a hotspot for transnational drug syndicates

Transnational drug syndicates in the Philippines continue to thrive despite decades of crackdowns targeting street-level dealers, with analysts warning that regional suppliers, financiers and trafficking networks have largely eluded enforcement efforts.

Former drug officials and security analysts say the country’s drug trade remains closely connected to a wider regional supply chain, with criminal groups relying on local partners, maritime routes and established distribution networks to move methamphetamine across Southeast Asia.

A foiled attempt to smuggle US$55 million worth of methamphetamine aboard a private jet in Laos, allegedly bound for the Philippines, has brought renewed attention to these cross-border operations, prompting a House investigation into suspected Philippine connections.