KIDAPAWAN CITY, Cotabato Province — Authorities arrested a High-Value Individual (HVI) and confiscated more than ₱346,000 worth of suspected shabu during the implementation of a court-issued search warrant in Barangay Singao, Kidapawan City, on July 28, 2026, in another significant anti-illegal drug operation in Region 12.
The suspect, identified only by the alias “Lan,” 50 years old and employed as a delivery truck driver, was taken into custody after law enforcement operatives uncovered suspected illegal drugs inside his residence during the operation.
The search warrant was carried out by personnel of the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit 12 (RPDEU-12) in close coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Kidapawan City Police Station.
During the search, authorities recovered 12 heat-sealed sachets containing suspected shabu with a combined weight of approximately 51 grams. Based on the National Standard Drug Price (NSDP), the confiscated illegal drugs have an estimated street value of ₱346,800.00.
The seized drug evidence was properly inventoried and documented in accordance with established legal procedures before being turned over for laboratory examination. The arrested suspect was likewise placed under police custody and is expected to face charges for violations of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Police said the operation forms part of the intensified campaign against illegal drugs, particularly targeting High-Value Individuals believed to be involved in the distribution and proliferation of prohibited substances within local communities.
Authorities have not yet disclosed additional details regarding the suspect’s alleged drug network or whether follow-up operations are underway to identify possible cohorts and supply sources.
Police Regional Office 12 Acting Regional Director PBGEN Alan B. Manibog lauded the operating teams for the successful conduct of the operation, emphasizing that sustained law enforcement efforts remain vital in dismantling illegal drug activities across the region.
“Patuloy nating tutumbukin ang mga pinagmumulan ng ilegal na droga sa ating mga komunidad. Ang bawat matagumpay na operasyon ay patunay ng ating matatag na paninindigan na panagutin ang mga lumalabag sa batas at pangalagaan ang kaligtasan ng ating mga mamamayan,” Manibog said.
The regional police chief stressed that PRO-12 remains steadfast in strengthening collaboration with partner law enforcement agencies to disrupt drug trafficking networks and ensure that those engaged in the illegal drug trade are brought before the courts.
The operation underscores the continuing joint efforts of the Philippine National Police and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency to reduce the circulation of illegal drugs in Region 12 through intelligence-driven operations, coordinated law enforcement actions, and the strict implementation of search warrants against identified drug personalities.
Authorities encouraged the public to continue supporting the government’s anti-drug campaign by reporting suspicious drug-related activities in their communities, emphasizing that community cooperation remains a critical component in maintaining peace, order, and public safety.