POLOMOLOK, South Cotabato — Three alleged drug personalities, including a High-Value Individual (HVI), were arrested after authorities confiscated approximately ₱357,000 worth of suspected shabu during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Silway 8, Polomolok, South Cotabato, on Tuesday, June 30, 2026.
The successful anti-illegal drug operation was carried out through the joint efforts of operatives from the Police Regional Drug Enforcement Unit (RPDEU) 12, Regional Intelligence Division (RID) 12, Philippine Drug Enforcement Group–Special Operations Unit (PDEG-SOU) 12, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region 12, and the Polomolok Municipal Police Station (MPS).
Authorities said the operation led to the arrest of three suspected drug personalities, one of whom was identified as a High-Value Individual, a classification used by law enforcement agencies for individuals believed to play a significant role in the illegal drug trade.
Recovered from the suspects were seven heat-sealed plastic sachets containing approximately 52.5 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of ₱357,000.
Also seized during the operation were four pieces of ₱1,000 boodle money and one genuine ₱1,000 bill used as marked money in the buy-bust transaction.
The arrested suspects, along with the confiscated evidence, were brought to the appropriate police facility for documentation and proper disposition. The suspected shabu will undergo laboratory examination, while criminal charges for violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (Republic Act No. 9165) are being prepared against the suspects.
Police Regional Office 12 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Arnold P. Manibog reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to intensifying the campaign against illegal drugs across the region.
“Hindi tayo titigil sa ating kampanya laban sa ilegal na droga. Patuloy nating paiigtingin ang ating operasyon upang maprotektahan ang ating mga komunidad at mapanagot ang mga lumalabag sa batas,” Manibog said.
The operation forms part of the continuing anti-illegal drug campaign of the Philippine National Police aimed at dismantling drug networks, apprehending high-value targets, and preventing the proliferation of illegal drugs in communities throughout Region 12.
Authorities also urged the public to continue supporting law enforcement efforts by reporting suspicious drug-related activities, emphasizing that community cooperation remains vital in sustaining the government’s fight against illegal drugs.