Sibagat, Agusan del Sur – A barangay councilor from Barangay Ilihan, Sibagat, Agusan del Sur was arrested on October 8, 2024, during a drug buy-bust operation led by the Agusan del Sur Provincial Office of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Regional Office XIII, in coordination with the Sibagat Municipal Police Station.
The suspect, identified as Joemar Empic y Andales, 35, an incumbent barangay kagawad (councilor), was caught selling methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as shabu, to an undercover agent in Purok 3, Barangay Ilihan, in the afternoon.
Authorities recovered Php 10,000 worth of shabu from Empic, along with the buy-bust money used in the operation.
This is not the first time the barangay official has been linked to illegal drug activities. In 2016, Empic faced charges for violating Section 7, Article II of Republic Act 9165, but the case was dismissed by the court.
A new criminal case for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as amended by Republic Act 10640, is now being prepared for filing before the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor of Agusan del Sur.
The arrest highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to crack down on illegal drug activities, even among local officials entrusted with public service.
