TACLOBAN CITY — A regional priority drug personality and his alleged cohort were arrested during an anti-illegal drug operation conducted by authorities in Ormoc City, resulting in the confiscation of suspected shabu and marijuana.
The operation was carried out on May 20, 2026 in Purok 10, Barangay Linao by operatives of the Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8) and partner law enforcement agencies.
Arrested were alias “Mario,” a 44-year-old electrician tagged as the region’s Rank 7 drug personality and listed in the Regional Priority Target List (RPTL), and alias “Mike,” a 33-year-old vendor. Both suspects are residents of Ormoc City.
Authorities recovered four heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing substances suspected to be shabu with an estimated weight of 2.42 grams and a Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) value of P16,456.00.
Also confiscated was one plastic sachet containing dried leaves believed to be marijuana weighing around 2.28 grams with an estimated value of P261.60.
The operation was conducted by personnel of the Ormoc City Drug Enforcement Unit in coordination with the Ormoc City Police Office–City Intelligence Unit (OCPO-CIU), Regional Intelligence Unit 8 (RIU-8), PNP Drug Enforcement Group Special Operations Unit 8 (PNP DEG SOU-8), and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Office 8 (PDEA-8).
PRO-8 Regional Director Jason L. Capoy said the successful operation reflects the intensified anti-drug campaign of law enforcement agencies across Eastern Visayas.
“This successful operation reflects the unyielding dedication of PRO-8 personnel and partner agencies in combating illegal drugs. PRO-8 will remain relentless in its efforts to apprehend drug personalities and ensure the safety and security of our communities,” Capoy said.
Authorities are now preparing the filing of appropriate criminal charges against the arrested suspects.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
