Cotabato City, July 22, 2025 — In a significant blow to the illegal drug trade in the Bangsamoro region, joint operatives of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Police Regional Office–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO BAR) arrested two high-value drug suspects in a buy-bust operation conducted along Notre Dame Avenue, Poblacion 4, Cotabato City, on July 21.
The suspects, identified only by their aliases “Mads” and “Baks,” were apprehended at around 4:17 p.m. following weeks of surveillance and intelligence gathering. Both are considered High-Value Targets (HVTs) in the government’s anti-drug campaign.
Authorities confiscated approximately 250 grams of suspected shabu (methamphetamine hydrochloride) from the suspects, with an estimated street value of ₱1.7 million.
The operation was a collaborative effort involving PDEA, PRO BAR, the Philippine National Police Maritime Group, and the Cotabato City Public Safety Office.
The arrested suspects are currently under the custody of PDEA BARMM and will face charges for violating Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
PBGEN Jaysen C. De Guzman, Regional Director of PRO BAR, commended the operatives for the successful operation, describing it as a strong indicator of the government’s commitment to eradicating illegal drugs in the region.
“This successful operation is a clear testament to our relentless campaign against illegal drugs. We will not stop until every corner of the Bangsamoro region is free from the grip of drug syndicates,” PBGEN De Guzman said.
He also called on the public to remain vigilant and supportive of anti-drug efforts, emphasizing that lasting peace and security can only be achieved through community cooperation.