Operatives from the Parian Police Station successfully apprehended a previously convicted individual in a significant drug bust, confiscating a large volume of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of eight hundred fifty thousand pesos.
Major Drug Bust in T. Padilla
The operation unfolded in Sitio BSJCO, Barangay T. Padilla, Cebu City, at approximately 9:50 in the evening on Friday, January 2, 2026. The target of the buy-bust was identified as Jesus Solite Robaro, a 56-year-old painter who also goes by the alias "Jessie." He is a resident of Kamagong Street in Barangay Lahug.
Authorities reported seizing a block of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as shabu. The confiscated substance weighed approximately 125 grams. Based on the standard drug price, this haul carries a dangerous street value of P850,000.
Suspect's Criminal History and Modus
Investigation records reveal that Robaro is no stranger to drug charges. He was previously arrested for similar violations in 2020 and was only released from custody in June 2025. According to the Parian Police, he allegedly returned to the illegal drug trade shortly after his release.
Police intelligence indicated that Robaro had become an active distributor in the areas of Lorega, T. Padilla, and neighboring barangays. He was placed under surveillance for about a week before the operation was finalized. Investigators from the Parian Police Station coordinated closely with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Region 7 to monitor his activities and plan the entrapment.
Reports suggest the suspect was capable of selling up to 100 grams of shabu per week. Furthermore, authorities allege that he sourced his illegal supply from a contact inside a prison facility.
Legal Proceedings and Evidence Handling
Following the arrest, all seized evidence was promptly turned over to the Cebu City Forensic Unit for chemical analysis to confirm the nature of the substance. The suspect remains under the custody of the Parian Police Station while awaiting the filing of formal charges.
Police are preparing cases against Jesus Solite Robaro for violations of Sections 5 and 11, Article II of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Section 5 pertains to the sale, trading, and administration of dangerous drugs, while Section 11 covers possession.
This operation highlights the continued vigilance of Cebu City law enforcement against individuals who revert to criminal activity after serving time, particularly in the relentless campaign against the illegal drug trade.
