PRESIDENT ROXAS, COTABATO — Authorities arrested a 16-year-old male student after he was found in possession of suspected dried marijuana leaves during a checkpoint operation in Purok 1, Barangay Poblacion, President Roxas, at around 6:00 p.m. on January 14, 2026—an incident that adds to growing concerns over the increasing involvement of minors as drug couriers.
Police identified the suspect only as alias “Bibo”, a resident of Purok Everlasting, Barangay Sta. Maria, Matalam, Cotabato, in keeping with laws protecting the identity of minors.
According to the police report, the teenager was riding a Suzuki Raider 150 motorcycle with a temporary plate number 120103 when flagged down at the checkpoint. Officers noted that the suspect initially hesitated to stop and appeared evasive when asked to present a driver’s license and vehicle registration.
When instructed to open the motorcycle’s compartment, police discovered a small packet containing suspected dried marijuana leaves weighing approximately 10.5 grams, along with ₱500 in cash. Officers observed that the suspect became visibly nervous, trembling and turning pale when questioned, and allegedly refused to give an explanation.
The minor is currently under police custody at the President Roxas Police Station, where proper procedures under juvenile justice laws are being observed. Authorities said coordination with social welfare officers is underway.
Rising Concern Over Minors Used in Drug Trade
Police officials warned that the arrest reflects a disturbing trend in which drug syndicates increasingly recruit minors as couriers, exploiting their age in the belief that they face lighter penalties or attract less suspicion at checkpoints.
“Criminal groups are deliberately using young people to move illegal drugs,” a police source said. “This not only endangers the youth but also destroys their future. Parents, schools, and communities must be vigilant.”
Law enforcement agencies renewed their call for stronger parental guidance, community monitoring, and school-based awareness campaigns to prevent minors from being drawn into illegal drug activities. Authorities also emphasized that checkpoint operations remain a critical tool in intercepting drugs and protecting communities—especially children—from further exploitation.