DAVAO CITY — A 33-year-old active member of the Philippine Coast Guard was arrested in a joint anti-drug operation after he was allegedly caught selling illegal drugs to an undercover agent in Barangay Sasa, authorities reported.
The suspect, identified only by his alias “Edgardo,” was apprehended at around 4 p.m. on Thursday, April 23, 2026, in Doña Mercedes Subdivision, Buhangin District, Davao City.
The buy-bust operation was led by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Office XI, in coordination with the National Bureau of Investigation Southeastern Mindanao Regional Office and the Coast Guard itself.
Authorities said the suspect was caught in the act of selling suspected shabu to an undercover operative, leading to his immediate arrest.
Confiscated during the operation were five sachets of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as shabu, with a total estimated weight of 12 grams and a street value of ₱81,600. The seized items included the buy-bust item.
Investigators disclosed that the operation stemmed from verified intelligence reports and prior surveillance, which confirmed the suspect’s alleged involvement in illegal drug activities.
Officials emphasized that the successful arrest highlighted strong inter-agency coordination and reinforced the government’s intensified campaign against illegal drugs.
“The operation sends a clear message that no one is above the law, regardless of rank or position in government service,” authorities said.
The suspect is currently under custody and will face charges for violation of Republic Act No. 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.