ROSARIO, Agusan del Sur — An elected barangay official was arrested in a high-impact anti-drug operation on March 28, 2026, underscoring authorities’ intensified campaign against illegal narcotics—even within the ranks of government.
Operatives from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Regional Office 13, in coordination with the Agusan del Sur Provincial Office and the Rosario Municipal Police Station, conducted a successful buy-bust operation in Purok 1, Barangay Libuac. The operation led to the apprehension of the local official, whose identity has yet to be publicly disclosed pending formal charges.
Authorities said the suspect was caught in the act of selling illegal drugs to an undercover agent. A sachet of suspected shabu was purchased during the operation, while several more were recovered from his possession upon arrest.
In total, operatives seized approximately 26 grams of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as shabu, with an estimated street value of ₱176,800. Also confiscated were the marked buy-bust money, a mobile phone, a motorcycle, a wallet, a paper bag, and an identification card confirming the suspect’s position as an elected barangay official.
Law enforcement officials emphasized that the arrest sends a strong and unequivocal message: no one is above the law, regardless of position or influence.
“The involvement of a public servant in illegal drug activities is a serious breach of public trust and integrity,” authorities said, noting that the operation is part of broader efforts to ensure accountability within government service.
Investigators revealed that the suspect had been under close monitoring and validation prior to the operation, with intelligence units working to confirm his alleged involvement in the illegal drug trade. The buy-bust operation was launched after sufficient evidence was gathered.
Following his arrest, the suspect was informed of his constitutional rights and is currently under the custody of PDEA for proper disposition.
Charges for violation of Sections 5 (sale of illegal drugs) and 11 (possession of illegal drugs), Article II of Republic Act 9165 are now being prepared against the official.
PDEA Regional Director Laurefel Gabales reiterated the agency’s commitment to a relentless, intelligence-driven anti-drug campaign, stressing that operations will continue “without fear or favor” in pursuit of safer and drug-free communities.
The arrest highlights growing concerns over the infiltration of illegal drug activities into public institutions, reinforcing the government’s stance that accountability and the rule of law must prevail at all levels.