Davao Region, Philippines – In a decisive crackdown against illegal drugs, joint operations conducted by the Police Regional Office 11 (PRO 11) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) on February 5, 2025, led to the dismantling of a drug den and the apprehension of multiple high-value individuals (HVIs) across different areas in the region.
A drug buy-bust operation was carried out in Purok Pag-ibig, Brgy. Astorga, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, by the tracker team of the Sta. Cruz Municipal Police Station, in coordination with the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit 11 (RPDEU 11), Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEU), Intel Personnel of the 1104th Maneuver Company (MC) Regional Mobile Force Battalion 11 (RMFB 11), and the 1st Davao Sur Provincial Mobile Force Company (1st DSPMFC).
This operation resulted in the dismantling of a drug den and the arrest of an alleged drug den maintainer, alias “Mai-Mai,” along with three other HVIs. Authorities also confiscated four heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing suspected shabu, with an estimated Standard Drug Price (SDP) of ₱20,400.00, along with a genuine 1000-peso bill used in the transaction.
Meanwhile, another buy-bust operation led by RPDEU 11 and Panabo City Police Station, in coordination with PDEA, was conducted in Purok 3, Brgy. Salvacion, Panabo City, Davao del Norte. This operation led to the arrest of a top regional HVI, identified as alias “Ar-Ar,” and the seizure of suspected shabu valued at ₱74,800.00.
Authorities also confiscated two heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing suspected shabu, a genuine 1000-peso bill accompanied by 25 machine-copied bills, and a black sling bag. A case for violation of Republic Act No. 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, is being prepared against alias “Ar-Ar” for inquest proceedings.
These successful operations underscore PRO 11’s dedication to eradicating illegal drugs in the Davao Region. Aligned with the strategic vision of PNP Chief PGEN Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, law enforcement has adopted a refined strategy that targets the sources and supply chains of illegal drugs, rather than focusing solely on street-level distributors and users. This approach aims to be more effective and less violent while upholding human rights and addressing the drug problem at its roots.
Authorities continue to urge the public to report any drug-related activities as efforts to eliminate illegal drug networks in the region remain a top priority.
