Authorities in the Zamboanga Peninsula and Sulu province scored a major victory in the war against illegal drugs in November 2025, confiscating narcotics with an estimated street value of over P21.4 million and arresting nearly 200 individuals.
Massive Haul and Widespread Arrests
Police Brigadier General Edwin Quilates, director of the Police Regional Office-Zamboanga Peninsula, announced the results on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. The operations, which spanned the entire month, led to the arrest of 182 individuals linked to the drug trade across 159 separate police actions.
The seized contraband included a substantial amount of shabu (methamphetamine) and marijuana. Specifically, operatives recovered 3,148.161 grams of shabu and 79.03 grams of marijuana, with the combined value reaching the multi-million peso mark.
Coordinated Efforts Yield Results
General Quilates praised the operating units for their dedication and professionalism. He emphasized that the success was a direct result of strategic planning and collaboration.
"The successful outcomes of these coordinated efforts reflect our steadfast resolve to protect communities from the scourge of illegal drugs and armed criminality," Quilates stated. "They are the direct result of inter-unit collaboration, actionable intelligence, and the dedication of our personnel."
Fugitives Also Captured in November Operations
Beyond the anti-drug campaign, police forces also intensified their hunt for wanted persons. In November, they successfully apprehended 202 fugitives. This list included:
- 62 Most Wanted Persons (MWPs)
- 140 Other Wanted Persons (OWPs)
These arrests were carried out across Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga City, and the Province of Sulu. Quilates credited the success to close coordination between local police, national agencies, and tips from vigilant citizens.
The police official reiterated the Philippine National Police's commitment to law enforcement and public safety. He also called on the community to remain active partners in maintaining peace and order by promptly reporting any suspicious activities to the authorities.
