BUTUAN CITY, Agusan del Norte — A priority drug personality was arrested in a late afternoon buy-bust operation on March 23, 2026, in Barangay Fort Poyohon, leading to the confiscation of approximately 100 grams of suspected shabu valued at ₱680,000, authorities reported.
Operatives carried out the operation with precision, resulting in the recovery of twenty (20) heat-sealed transparent sachets containing white crystalline substance believed to be methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as shabu. The marked buy-bust money used during the transaction was also seized from the suspect.
Authorities underscored that the successful operation prevented a significant volume of illegal drugs from reaching communities in Butuan City, highlighting the continuing threat posed by drug syndicates operating in the region.
The operation was spearheaded by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Regional Office 13 through its Agusan del Norte Provincial Office, with support from the PDEA Regional Special Enforcement Team and Legal and Prosecution Unit. Also involved were personnel from Butuan City Police Station 2, the City Drug Enforcement Unit, and PIT-Agusan del Norte.
Officials emphasized that the arrest was the result of extensive intelligence gathering, synchronized planning, and seamless coordination among participating units—demonstrating the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration in combating illegal drugs.
PDEA Regional Director Laurefel P. Gabales lauded the joint efforts, stating that unified operations significantly strengthen the government’s anti-drug campaign.
“Such unified actions significantly strengthen the government’s anti-drug campaign. By working together, agencies maximize their resources, enhance operational efficiency, and ensure that high-value targets are effectively neutralized,” Gabales said.
The arrested individual is now facing charges for violation of Section 5, Article II of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as amended, which penalizes the illegal sale of dangerous drugs.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to intensify anti-drug operations and urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperative, stressing that community support remains vital in sustaining gains in the fight against illegal narcotics.