DAVAO CITY — Police operatives arrested a suspected drug peddler and confiscated approximately ₱489,600 worth of suspected shabu during a joint anti-drug operation in Barangay Bago Aplaya, Davao City, in the early hours of Wednesday, November 4, 2026.
The suspect, identified only by the alias “Bai,” was apprehended at around 2:01 a.m. during a buy-bust operation conducted in Purok 15, Ideal, by personnel of Police Station 17 (Baliok), led by Police Major Fil Anthony D. Manlatican, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region XI.
The operation was reinforced by personnel of the 2nd City Mobile Force Company (CMFC), forming part of the joint law enforcement effort against the illegal drug trade in the city.
Authorities reported recovering approximately 72 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of ₱489,600, from the operation. The seizure represents another significant drug recovery by local police as authorities continue efforts to disrupt the distribution of prohibited substances in Davao City.
The arrested suspect is expected to face appropriate charges under Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, subject to the completion of the required investigation and documentation.
Davao City Police Office (DCPO) City Director Police Colonel Peter Bauzon Madria commended the operating units for the successful operation, emphasizing the importance of intelligence-driven law enforcement activities in addressing illegal drug activities.
Madria reiterated the DCPO’s commitment to sustaining anti-drug operations and strengthening police efforts to maintain public safety and security across Davao City.
The latest arrest underscores the continuing campaign of law enforcement agencies against illegal drug distribution, particularly through coordinated operations involving local police units and PDEA.
However, authorities have yet to disclose further details about the suspect, including the alleged source of the confiscated drugs and whether the arrest could lead to the identification of other individuals involved in the local drug trade.
The suspect remains entitled to the constitutional presumption of innocence unless proven guilty in court.