DAVAO CITY — Authorities confiscated more than five kilograms of suspected marijuana worth an estimated ₱1.6 million from an 18-year-old suspect during a drug buy-bust operation in Talomo Proper on Wednesday afternoon, February 4, 2026.
Operatives of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Region XI (PDEA-XI) arrested the suspect, identified only by the alias “John,” at around 3:25 p.m. in PLDT Village after he allegedly sold illegal drugs to an undercover agent.
According to PDEA-XI, the operation began when a poseur buyer successfully purchased ₱5,000 worth of suspected dried marijuana from the suspect. Following the transaction, authorities immediately arrested him and conducted a search, which led to the discovery of four large vacuum-sealed packs and 24 smaller sachets containing suspected marijuana.
The seized illegal drugs had a total weight of approximately 5.2 kilograms.
PDEA officials said the operation was carried out in coordination with the National Bureau of Investigation–Special Enforcement and Monitoring Response Office (NBI-SEMRO) and personnel from the Ecoland Police Station 15.
The suspect is now in the custody of PDEA-XI and will face charges for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (Republic Act 9165), which carries severe penalties for possession and sale of illegal drugs.
Authorities emphasized that the arrest of a minor-aged suspect highlights the growing involvement of young individuals in the illegal drug trade, urging families and communities to remain vigilant and actively participate in drug prevention efforts.
PDEA reiterated its commitment to intensify anti-drug operations in Davao City and across the region to curb the distribution of illegal substances and protect the youth from the dangers of narcotics.