BONGAO, Tawi-Tawi — Authorities seized an estimated ₱13.6 million worth of suspected illegal drugs in two consecutive anti-drug operations conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, resulting in the arrest of one suspect and the rescue of a minor.
The operations, carried out by the PDEA Tawi-Tawi Provincial Office under the leadership of Provincial Officer Abraham Solon Kalim, led to the confiscation of approximately two kilograms of Methamphetamine Hydrochloride, commonly known as shabu.
According to PDEA, the first operation was conducted on May 31, 2026, in the vicinity of the Public Market in Poblacion, Bongao, where operatives apprehended a male suspect identified only through the alias “Utoh.”
Authorities recovered around one kilogram of suspected shabu from the suspect, with an estimated National Drug Price of ₱6.8 million.
A day later, on June 1, 2026, another anti-illegal drug operation was launched in Barangay Simandagit, Bongao, which resulted in the seizure of an additional one kilogram of suspected shabu valued at another ₱6.8 million.
During the second operation, authorities also rescued a 13-year-old minor who was reportedly found in circumstances linked to the illegal drug activity. The child was immediately turned over to the appropriate authorities for proper care, intervention, and protection.
PDEA officials said the successful back-to-back operations were made possible through close coordination with partner law enforcement agencies, the Local Government Unit of Bongao, and the Provincial Government of Tawi-Tawi.
The agency described the operations as part of its intensified campaign against illegal drugs and organized criminal activities in the province.
“These accomplishments reflect the unwavering commitment of PDEA Tawi-Tawi and its partner agencies in safeguarding our communities from the devastating effects of illegal drugs,” the agency said in a statement.
Authorities also reaffirmed their commitment to continue aggressive anti-drug operations across the province, emphasizing that the campaign against illegal narcotics remains a top priority.
“PDEA Tawi-Tawi will not rest, nor will we lower our guard in the relentless enforcement of the country’s anti-drug laws,” the statement added.
The agency further stressed that with the continued support of law enforcement partners, local government units, and stakeholders, authorities remain determined to achieve their vision of a “Drug-Free Bongao” and a “Drug-Free Tawi-Tawi.”
The seized illegal drugs will undergo laboratory examination, while appropriate charges are being prepared against the arrested suspect for violation of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.