TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte — Authorities recovered nearly P850,000 worth of suspected shabu from an abandoned vehicle parked in Purok Fe, Ayala Village, Barangay Mankilam, Tagum City, on the afternoon of February 7, 2026, highlighting the continued presence of illegal drugs in the area.
According to the Tagum City Police Station, the discovery was made at around 1:20 p.m. after a member of the Civil Security Unit (CSU), identified by the alias “JJ,” noticed a gray Toyota Vios that had been parked in the area for an unusually long time. While conducting a routine inspection at around 12:45 p.m., the security personnel saw suspicious plastic sachets on the passenger seat beside a gray pouch, prompting him to immediately alert the police.
Responding swiftly to the report, investigators from the Station Drug Enforcement Unit (SDEU) arrived at the scene to conduct an ocular inspection and initial investigation. In the presence of witnesses, including a representative of the local government, authorities confiscated seven heat-sealed transparent sachets and one pouch containing suspected shabu.
The seized illegal drugs were estimated to weigh approximately 125 grams and, based on the Standard Drug Price, were valued at around P850,000.
Police also took custody of the abandoned vehicle — a metallic silver Toyota Vios with a temporary plate number attached — and brought it, along with the confiscated items, to the Tagum City Police Station for further examination and documentation.
The operation was led by Chief of Police PLtCol. Frederick Deles, with Investigator PSSg Ibag and seizing officer CSU Rodji Bayle, under the supervision of DNPPO-PD Provincial Director PCOL Glenn Cristines. Also present during the seizure were Barangay Kagawad Froza-il Ferido and a media representative to ensure transparency in the process.
PLtCol. Deles said the recovery reflects the commitment of the police force to intensify the campaign against illegal drugs in the city and the region.
“This is proof that our police personnel remain vigilant and focused, even in challenging situations. We are determined to prevent the spread of illegal drugs in our communities,” Deles said.
He added that the operation is in line with the directive of Regional Director Rosette to strengthen anti-drug enforcement efforts across the region and to encourage law enforcers to remain proactive in suppressing illegal activities.
The confiscated suspected shabu will undergo forensic examination to confirm its composition and serve as evidence in court. Meanwhile, investigators are conducting follow-up operations and intelligence work to identify the owner of the vehicle and determine those responsible for the illegal drugs.
Authorities said cases will be filed for violations of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, once the suspects are identified.
Police officials also urged the public to remain alert and to immediately report suspicious activities in their communities, stressing that public cooperation plays a vital role in the government’s ongoing fight against illegal drugs.
The Tagum City Police Station assured residents that operations against drug trafficking and distribution will continue as part of efforts to maintain peace, order, and public safety in the city.