STA. CRUZ, DAVAO DEL SUR — Five individuals, including several persons identified by authorities as high-value targets, were arrested after a joint anti-drug operation led by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Davao del Sur resulted in the seizure of approximately 36.4 grams of suspected shabu worth an estimated P247,520 based on its reported street value.
The operation was conducted at around 11:36 a.m. on September 25, 2026, at Sitio Tacub, Barangay Zone 1, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, according to authorities.
The operation was led by Intelligence Agent V Clodito V. Cañada of the PDEA Regional Office 11 Davao del Sur Provincial Office, in coordination with personnel from the Davao del Sur Provincial Police Office–Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (DSPPO-PDEU), the Davao del Sur Provincial Intelligence Team, the PNP Intelligence Group, the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 11, and the Regional Maritime Unit 11 Davao del Sur Maritime Police Station.
Authorities said the operation yielded one heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet containing 1.4 grams of suspected shabu, which was allegedly sold during the buy-bust transaction.
Another six sachets containing approximately 35 grams of suspected shabu were reportedly recovered during the operation and were classified by authorities as being in the possession of the suspects.
Also recovered were five transparent sachets with suspected shabu residue and two improvised glass tooters, which authorities said were among the items found at the scene.
The operatives also recovered seven pieces of P1,000 boodle money, including one genuine P1,000 bill, allegedly used in the operation, along with three disposable lighters of different colors, an improvised bamboo sealer, a yellow pencil case, and an aluminum tube case.
Five suspects taken into custody
Authorities identified the suspects only through their aliases pending appropriate legal proceedings.
They were identified as alias “Joy,” 39, a live-in partner and laborer, who was described as a suspected drug den maintainer and high-value target; alias “Kulot,” 42, also a live-in partner and identified as a painter/carpenter and alleged drug den employee; alias “Drix,” 26, a live-in partner and construction worker; alias “Iya,” 67, a female visitor; and alias “Ton,” 32, single and a fisherman.
Authorities said the suspects were residents or individuals present in Sitio Tacub, Barangay Zone 1, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.
One of the suspects, alias “Iya,” was also described by authorities as having previously been arrested in connection with illegal drug activity several years ago.
PDEA and police personnel took the five suspects into custody following the operation.
Authorities said appropriate charges are now being prepared against the suspects for alleged violations of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
The confiscated suspected illegal drugs and other evidence will undergo the required documentation and examination as part of the investigation and filing of the appropriate cases.
The operation underscores the continuing joint enforcement efforts of PDEA and law enforcement agencies in Davao del Sur against alleged drug trafficking and the operation of suspected drug dens.
The identities of the suspects, the final drug findings, and the specific charges to be filed remain subject to the completion of the investigation and appropriate legal proceedings.