The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) successfully obtained a court order forfeiting bank accounts found to be linked to illegal drug trafficking.
In a Decision dated August 24, 2026, the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Manila ordered the forfeiture in favor of the government of the bank accounts associated with four individuals.
The RTC found that the funds in these accounts were proceeds of unlawful activity of illegal drug trafficking.
The case stemmed from a buy-bust operation conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Zamboanga City.
The case stemmed from a buy-bust operation conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Zamboanga City against two individuals. During the operation, authorities recovered methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) and financial documents from the subjects.
Following the operation, PDEA requested the AMLC to conduct a financial investigation into the subjects and the bank accounts identified in the recovered documents. The AMLC’s investigation led to the discovery of additional related bank accounts and established their involvement in illegal drug trafficking.
The RTC’s Decision covers 10 bank accounts containing approximately P3.5 million.
The RTC’s Decision covers ten (10) bank accounts containing approximately P3.5 million.
“This successful forfeiture underscores the AMLC’s commitment to working closely with partner agencies to ensure that criminals are deprived of the proceeds of their unlawful activities,” the agency said.
“Through sustained financial investigations and asset recovery efforts, the AMLC continues to protect the integrity of the Philippine financial system and help build safer communities for all Filipinos,” it concluded.
