KABACAN, COTABATO — A 71-year-old widow was arrested in a police operation in Poblacion, Kabacan, Cotabato, revealing yet another grim picture of how poverty continues to drive even senior citizens into the drug trade.
Police identified the suspect only as “Berta,” a resident of Plang Village, who was apprehended by operatives of the Kabacan Municipal Police Station during a Manhunt Charlie operation around 8:00 a.m. on November 12, 2025.
Based on a report from Kabacan PNP, the grandmother was served a warrant of arrest for violations of Sections 11 and 12 of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. She was wanted for possession of illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia.
Authorities confirmed that “Berta” had allegedly been involved in the sale of illegal drugs after being lured into the trade because she needed money to buy her maintenance medicines. With no stable income and limited physical capacity to work due to her age, the elderly widow reportedly turned to illegal activity in a desperate attempt to survive.
Police said her case highlights a deeper socioeconomic issue: the harsh reality that poverty can push even vulnerable senior citizens into criminal activity. In many rural communities, older individuals with little to no pension or family support are left to fend for themselves, making them easy targets for drug networks seeking low-profile couriers or sellers.
The suspect is currently detained at the Kabacan Municipal Police Station while awaiting the court’s commitment order.
Authorities reiterated the need for strengthened social welfare programs and livelihood assistance for the elderly, stressing that enforcement alone will not address the root causes that drive financially struggling Filipinos—regardless of age—into the hands of illegal drug operations.