Bicol Police Conduct Week-Long Anti-Drug Operation Seizing Over PHP3.4 Million Worth of Illegal Substances

From September 15 to 21, the Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) executed an extensive anti-drug campaign resulting in the confiscation of illegal drugs valued at more than PHP3.4 million and the detention of 30 suspects. PRO-5 Director Brig. Gen. Nestor Babagay Jr. reported that the seizure included 500.95 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) and 9 grams of marijuana. The authorities conducted 26 operations leading to these arrests, which comprised two high-value targets and 28 street-level suspects. Following the activities, a total of 32 criminal cases have been formally lodged. In terms of geographical distribution of drug seizures, Masbate accounted for the largest share with PHP1.94 million worth of illegal substances seized. Naga City followed with PHP1.02 million, while Camarines Sur had PHP297,636. The provinces of Albay, Sorsogon, and Camarines Norte recorded PHP49,580, PHP74,024, and PHP16,048 worth of confiscated drugs, respectively. Catanduanes, however, reported no seizures during this period. These coordinated efforts underscore PRO-5's commitment to curbing the proliferation of illegal drugs across the Bicol region.