KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — Three men were arrested after authorities intercepted a vehicle carrying nearly half a million pesos worth of suspected shabu during a checkpoint operation along the National Highway in Barangay Carpenter Hill, Koronadal City, shortly after noon on Wednesday, June 24, 2026.
Joint operatives from the Koronadal City Police Station and the South Cotabato Highway Patrol Group (HPG) conducted the operation at approximately 12:45 p.m., leading to the seizure of around 70 grams of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as shabu, with an estimated street value of ₱476,000.
According to police reports, authorities flagged down a Toyota Vios that passed through the checkpoint. During the inspection, law enforcement personnel discovered several transparent heat-sealed plastic sachets containing suspected illegal drugs.
Further searches yielded additional sachets of suspected shabu, assorted drug paraphernalia, cellular phones, and other items believed to be connected to illegal drug activities. The vehicle used by the suspects was also impounded as part of the investigation.
The arrested individuals were identified only by their aliases “Louie,” 33, a pedicab driver; “Maybert,” 28, also a pedicab driver; and “Ralf,” 28, a construction worker. All three are residents of Sogod Lot 5, Barangay Apopong, General Santos City.
Police said the confiscated evidence included at least five sachets containing suspected shabu weighing approximately 70 grams, along with various drug-related paraphernalia.
Authorities are preparing charges against the suspects for violations of Sections 5, 11, and 12 of Republic Act No. 9165, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. These provisions cover the illegal sale, possession of dangerous drugs, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
The successful operation underscores the continuing efforts of law enforcement agencies to curb the flow of illegal drugs in the region.
Police Regional Office 12 Director, Alan B. Manibog, lauded the operating personnel for their vigilance and dedication in carrying out anti-drug operations.
“Patunay ito na ang pagiging mapagmatyag ng ating mga pulis ay mahalagang sandata laban sa iligal na droga. Patuloy nating paiigtingin ang ating operasyon upang mapanatiling ligtas ang ating mga komunidad,” Manibog said.
Authorities continue to investigate the source and intended distribution network of the seized illegal drugs as part of broader efforts to dismantle drug trafficking operations in South Cotabato and neighboring areas.
The arrested suspects remain under police custody pending the filing of formal charges before the appropriate court.