Surigao City, Philippines — In a decisive anti-drug operation, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Regional Office XIII, in collaboration with the Surigao del Norte Provincial Intelligence Unit and the Surigao City Police Station, successfully apprehended three identified drug personalities. The operation, conducted in Surigao City, led to the seizure of illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia, and other incriminating items, further strengthening the government’s war against illegal substances.
In a related development, PDEA Regional Office VIII (RO VIII), in cooperation with other law enforcement agencies, discovered several kilos of shabu (methamphetamine) in an abandoned SUV at the Port of Liloan, Southern Leyte, on November 8, 2024.
Despite these successes, unfounded allegations have surfaced on social media, implicating Surigao del Norte 2nd District Representative Honorable Congressman Robert Ace S. Barbers and Surigao del Norte Governor Honorable Robert Lyndon S. Barbers in the criminal activities of the suspects. PDEA RO XIII categorically denies these accusations, emphasizing that there is no evidence to link either official to the apprehended individuals or their illicit activities.
“This operation is the result of months of painstaking intelligence efforts, including surveillance, monitoring, and validation,” PDEA RO XIII stated. “The suspects apprehended have no affiliation with Congressman Robert Ace S. Barbers or Governor Robert Lyndon S. Barbers.”
The agency strongly condemned the spread of false information, asserting its commitment to conducting anti-drug operations with transparency, integrity, and professionalism. PDEA RO XIII reassured the public of its dedication to pursuing justice while protecting innocent individuals from malicious accusations.
“Baseless allegations undermine the efforts of law enforcement agencies and the innocent individuals they implicate. Our commitment is to address the drug problem in a manner that upholds accountability, regardless of political affiliations,” the agency added.
The PDEA calls on the public to rely on verified information and avoid sharing unsubstantiated claims that could harm the reputation of individuals and the progress of anti-drug initiatives. The agency remains steadfast in its mission to combat illegal drugs and ensure justice for all.
Both operations highlight the continuing efforts of Philippine authorities to curb the illegal drug trade and maintain public trust in the country’s justice system.
