BUKIDNON — A job order worker of the Valencia City government and his alleged companion were arrested after authorities seized approximately 10.2 grams of suspected shabu worth an estimated ₱69,360 during a buy-bust operation in Valencia City, Bukidnon, early Thursday morning, September 17, 2026.
The operation was carried out at around 3:17 a.m. in Purok 1, Barangay Poblacion, following an intelligence-driven operation targeting alleged illegal drug activity in the area.
Arrested were alias “Mario,” 49, identified as a job order worker of the city government and a purok leader in Purok 1, Barangay Poblacion; and alias “Jano,” 36, a driver and resident of Balite, Magpet, North Cotabato.
Police identified the 49-year-old suspect as a high-value individual (HVI) in the operation.
The buy-bust operation was led by personnel of the Valencia City Police Station, under the direction of PLT Christopher R. Ibañez, team leader of the City Drug Enforcement Unit (CDEU). The operation was conducted with support from the 2nd Bukidnon Provincial Mobile Force Company, Regional Drug Enforcement Unit 10, 1003rd Maneuver Company, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-10 Bukidnon, CADSUT, and Bukidnon Police Intelligence Unit.
Authorities said the operation resulted in the recovery of a total of 10.2 grams of suspected shabu, consisting of the alleged buy-bust item and additional sachets reportedly recovered from the two suspects.
The seized items were estimated to have a total street value of ₱69,360, according to authorities.
Also recovered during the operation were ₱500 in buy-bust money, two cellular phones, and a coin purse allegedly used to contain the suspected illegal drugs.
The two suspects were placed under the custody of the Valencia City Police Station pending documentation, disposition and the filing of appropriate charges.
Authorities said the suspects may face charges for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
The arrests underscore the continuing focus of law enforcement authorities on suspected drug personalities operating within communities, including individuals holding local government-related positions or community responsibilities.
Police Regional Office 10 Regional Director PBGEN Nestor C. Babagay Jr. emphasized the importance of sustained coordination among police units and partner agencies in the campaign against illegal drugs and in identifying personalities allegedly involved in the illegal drug trade.
The allegations against the two suspects will remain subject to the investigation and proceedings of the proper authorities. The confiscated substances are likewise expected to undergo the required examination and documentation as part of the case build-up.