DAPA, Surigao del Norte — Authorities intensified the government’s campaign against illegal drugs in Siargao Island after a joint anti-drug operation dismantled a suspected drug den, uprooted marijuana plants, and arrested three individuals during a coordinated enforcement operation in Barangay Sta. Fe, Dapa, Surigao del Norte on July 20, 2026.
The successful operation was conducted through the combined efforts of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Regional Office XIII – Surigao del Norte Provincial Office, the Seaport Interdiction Unit–Surigao, the Surigao del Norte Provincial Police Office – Provincial Intelligence Unit/Drug Enforcement Unit, the Dapa Municipal Police Station, and the Airport-Seaport Interdiction Unit–Siargao, underscoring the strengthened coordination among law enforcement agencies in combating illegal drugs across the province.
Authorities identified the arrested suspects as a 45-year-old alleged drug den maintainer and marijuana cultivator from Barangay Sta. Fe, Dapa; a 45-year-old alleged drug den employee from the same village; and a 23-year-old alleged drug den visitor from Barangay Bitoon, Del Carmen, Surigao del Norte.
According to authorities, the operation not only led to the closure of the suspected drug den but also resulted in the seizure of various forms of marijuana and related evidence. Recovered during the operation were dried marijuana, marijuana-infused paraphernalia, one marijuana seedling, and seven full-grown marijuana plants with a combined estimated weight of approximately one kilogram and a total Standard Drug Price (SDP) of ₱120,000.
Operatives also confiscated the marked buy-bust money, three mobile phones, and other non-drug evidence believed to be relevant to the investigation and prosecution of the suspects.
The arrested individuals are set to face multiple charges for alleged violations of Sections 5 (Sale of Dangerous Drugs), 6 (Maintenance of a Drug Den), 7 (Employees and Visitors of a Drug Den), 11 (Possession of Dangerous Drugs), 12 (Possession of Drug Paraphernalia), 16 (Cultivation or Culture of Plants Classified as Dangerous Drugs), and 26 (Attempt or Conspiracy) under Article II of Republic Act No. 9165, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
PDEA Regional Office XIII Director Laurefel P. Gabales emphasized that maintaining Siargao’s reputation as a premier tourist destination requires sustained efforts to keep communities free from illegal drugs.
“Siargao is known around the world for its breathtaking natural beauty and the hospitality of its people. Preserving its image as a safe, peaceful, and drug-free island is a shared responsibility. By keeping illegal drugs out of our communities, we protect not only our families but also the tourism industry that provides livelihood and opportunities for thousands of Surigaonons,” Gabales said.
Authorities said the operation demonstrates the government’s continuing commitment to dismantling illegal drug networks, eradicating the cultivation of prohibited plants, and preventing the use of communities as hubs for illegal drug activities.
Law enforcement agencies also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting anti-drug initiatives by reporting suspicious activities, stressing that community participation remains a critical component in sustaining peace, public safety, and the island’s thriving tourism industry.