Cotabato City – October 27, 2024
In a successful operation against illegal drug activities, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Maguindanao Provincial Office, in coordination with the Maguindanao Maritime Police Station, Regional Drug Enforcement Unit, and Cotabato City Police Office-Police Station 2, conducted a buy-bust operation that resulted in the closure of a drug den and the arrest of three individuals in Purok Shariff, Malagapas, Rosary Heights 10, Cotabato City on October 26, 2024.
During the operation, law enforcement officials confiscated eighteen heat-sealed plastic sachets containing an estimated 22 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as shabu, with a total street value of ₱149,600. Additional items seized included buy-bust money and various drug paraphernalia associated with the operation of the drug den.
The arrested suspects were identified as Rodrigo Paragoso Pardillo Sr., 49, also known as Alas or Rodel, the alleged maintainer of the drug den; Rodrigo Dinggal Pardillo Jr., also known as Ryan; and Jay-Jay Buot Apiag, referred to as Potchie. All three suspects are currently detained at the PDEA Jail Facility, where they await inquest proceedings for violations of Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
The operation highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat the drug trade in the region and reinforces the importance of community cooperation in reporting suspicious activities. Authorities are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in Cotabato City and its surrounding areas.
