Panabo City, Davao del Norte — Authorities struck a significant blow against illegal drug operations in Davao Region after dismantling an alleged drug den and arresting five suspects in an early morning buy-bust operation on March 29, 2026.
Operatives from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Regional Office XI, in coordination with the Panabo City Police Station, carried out the operation at around 2:59 a.m. in Purok Caimito, Barangay Gredu, Panabo City.
The primary target, identified only as alias “Joel,” 28, was apprehended after allegedly selling a sachet of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as shabu, weighing approximately one gram and valued at ₱7,000 to an undercover operative. Authorities believe Joel served as the maintainer of the drug den.
Also arrested were alias “Mae,” reportedly an employee of the drug den and the live-in partner of Joel, along with three other individuals identified as alias “Mike,” alias “Ronel,” and alias “Taling.” The three were allegedly present at the site as drug den visitors during the operation.
Seized from the suspects were seven heat-sealed plastic sachets containing suspected shabu with an estimated total weight of 19 grams and a street value of about ₱130,000. Authorities also recovered assorted drug paraphernalia and the marked buy-bust money used in the operation.
Law enforcement officials underscored the importance of dismantling drug dens as a key strategy in disrupting the illegal drug trade and safeguarding communities. They noted that such operations help cut off both supply and demand by targeting not only sellers but also users frequenting these locations.
The successful raid highlights intensified intelligence-driven operations and strengthened coordination among law enforcement agencies in Region XI amid ongoing efforts to curb illegal drugs.
Charges are being prepared against the suspects for violations of multiple provisions under Republic Act No. 9165, including Sections 5 (sale of illegal drugs), 6 (maintenance of a drug den), 7 (employees and visitors of a drug den), 11 (possession of dangerous drugs), 13 (possession of drugs during parties or gatherings), 14 (possession of equipment and paraphernalia), and 26 (attempt or conspiracy).
Authorities continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with anti-drug efforts by reporting suspicious activities, emphasizing that community involvement remains vital in the campaign to build safer and drug-free neighborhoods.