MATI CITY, Davao Oriental — A 32-year-old security guard was arrested during a joint anti-illegal drug buy-bust operation in Barangay Macambol, Mati City, on the afternoon of October 18, 2026, with authorities seizing approximately 26.98 grams of suspected shabu valued at ₱183,464.
The suspect, identified by the alias “Caloy,” was apprehended at around 3:10 p.m. during an operation conducted by intelligence operatives and the City Drug Enforcement Unit (CDEU) of the Mati City Police Station (Mati CPS), in coordination with the Davao Oriental Police Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU-DOPPO) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Davao Oriental.
The operation was led by PCPAT Ariel A. Isamel, Deputy Chief of Police, under the supervision of PLTCOL Frederick C. Sa-Ao, chief of the Mati City Police Station.
According to the initial police report, operatives recovered several sachets containing suspected shabu, a green coin purse, and ₱500 in marked buy-bust money. The confiscated suspected illegal drugs had an estimated total weight of 26.98 grams and a street value of ₱183,464.
The arrest forms part of the continuing law enforcement campaign against the sale and distribution of illegal drugs in Mati City and surrounding communities. The operation was carried out through coordinated intelligence and enforcement efforts involving local police units and the regional anti-drug agency.
Following the operation, the suspect and the confiscated evidence were placed under the custody of the Mati City Police Station as authorities prepared the appropriate charges for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
The suspect’s arrest and the seizure of the suspected illegal drugs remain subject to the appropriate legal proceedings. The allegations must be established in court, and the accused is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
The Mati City Police Station said the operation was part of its sustained efforts to combat illegal drugs and safeguard public peace and security.
Authorities continue to call for cooperation from the community in supporting lawful anti-drug initiatives and reporting suspected illegal activities to the appropriate agencies.