BAROBO, Surigao del Sur — Three men identified by police as alleged street-level drug personalities were arrested during a joint buy-bust operation conducted by the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Barobo, Surigao del Sur, on August 27, 2026.
The operation, carried out from around 3:30 p.m. to 5:10 p.m. in Purok 5, Barangay Causwagan, resulted in the seizure of 11 packets of suspected shabu weighing approximately 12.57 grams, with an estimated street value of ₱85,476.
Authorities also recovered the marked buy-bust money and other items believed to be drug-related paraphernalia from the suspects.
The arrested individuals were identified only by their aliases as “Yoyong,” 34; “Ray-Ray,” 37; and “Deden,” 48. Police authorities classified the three as newly identified Street-Level Individuals (SLIs) allegedly involved in the illegal drug trade.
According to the police, “Yoyong” is a motorcycle technician and a resident of Barangay San Jose, Barobo. “Ray-Ray,” 37, was identified as a radiator mechanic and a resident of Upper Doongan, Butuan City, while “Deden,” 48, was described as a farmer residing in Barangay San Vicente, Butuan City.
The operation was jointly conducted by personnel of the Barobo Municipal Police Station (MPS), under the leadership of PMAJ Andrew G. Lupian, and the PDEA-Surigao del Sur.
Police said the operation was launched following information gathered by law enforcement authorities regarding alleged illegal drug activities involving the suspects.
During the operation, authorities reportedly obtained suspected shabu from the suspects as part of the controlled purchase. The subsequent arrest led to the recovery of the additional suspected illegal drugs and other evidence.
The seized items were subjected to inventory and documentation in the presence of a barangay kagawad and a media representative, in accordance with procedures for the handling and documentation of seized drug evidence.
The total weight of the suspected shabu was placed at 12.57 grams, with authorities estimating its value at ₱85,476.
The three suspects are currently under the custody of the Barobo MPS while appropriate legal proceedings are being pursued against them.
Authorities said the suspects are facing charges for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
As in all drug cases, the allegations against the three men remain subject to judicial proceedings, and they are presumed innocent unless proven guilty by a court of law.
The operation underscores the continuing joint efforts of the PNP and PDEA to disrupt street-level drug distribution in communities across Surigao del Sur and prevent illegal drugs from reaching local residents.