MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — Authorities arrested a 27-year-old man in a buy-bust operation that led to the seizure of illegal drugs and a firearm in Purok 4, Barangay Sumpong on the morning of April 2, 2026.
The suspect, identified only by the alias “Joko,” a resident of the area, was apprehended around 10:39 a.m. during a coordinated anti-drug operation led by the City Drug Enforcement Unit (CDEU) of the Malaybalay City Police Station, in collaboration with the 1st Bukidnon Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC) and the Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU), with coordination from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Region 10.
Recovered from the suspect were approximately 3.074 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of ₱20,903.20, based on the standard drug price. Authorities also confiscated a caliber .38 revolver loaded with one round of ammunition, a ₱500 bill used as marked money, and a sling bag believed to have been used in the transaction.
The confiscation of both illegal drugs and a firearm underscores the continuing link between narcotics and other forms of criminal activity, raising concerns over public safety in local communities.
The suspect is currently detained at the Malaybalay City Police Station and is set to face charges for violation of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as well as Republic Act No. 10591.
Meanwhile, the seized substances and other pieces of evidence have been turned over to the Regional Forensic Unit 10 for laboratory examination.
Police authorities reiterated their commitment to intensifying anti-drug operations across Bukidnon, emphasizing that sustained law enforcement efforts and community cooperation remain crucial in curbing the proliferation of illegal drugs and ensuring safer neighborhoods.