Panglao Police Seize P1.2 Million Worth of Shabu in Sting Operation Targeting Delivery Driver
In a significant anti-drug operation, authorities in Panglao, Bohol, successfully intercepted a delivery driver allegedly transporting illegal narcotics instead of parcels, leading to a major seizure of suspected shabu valued at over one million pesos. The arrest occurred in the early hours of Friday, January 30, 2026, marking a critical blow to local drug trafficking activities.
Details of the Early Morning Drug Bust
The operation was conducted by personnel from the Panglao Municipal Police Station at approximately 12:05 a.m. in Purok 5, Barangay Libaong, within the municipality of Panglao. Law enforcement officers apprehended the suspect, identified as Peter John Dote, a 43-year-old resident of Barangay Ubujan in Tagbilaran City. During the arrest, police confiscated packages containing what is believed to be shabu, with a total weight of 182.06 grams.
Based on the Standard Drug Price, the estimated street value of the seized substances amounts to a staggering P1,238,008.00. In addition to the drugs, officers also recovered other non-drug items that will serve as crucial evidence in the ongoing investigation. All confiscated materials have been forwarded to the PNP Forensic Laboratory at the Bohol Police Provincial Office for comprehensive chemical analysis to confirm their composition and potency.
Suspect's Alleged Drug Trafficking Network and Prior Record
According to the investigation conducted by the Panglao PNP, the suspect is reportedly a known distributor of illegal drugs operating across multiple areas, including the cities of Dauis and Panglao, as well as Tagbilaran City. Authorities allege that Dote was capable of selling up to 200 grams of shabu per week, sourced from his supplier, indicating a substantial role in the regional drug trade.
Further background checks revealed that the suspect had a prior arrest in 2019 for a similar drug-related case in Tagbilaran. However, that case was eventually dismissed by the court, allowing him to be released. This previous incident underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement in prosecuting drug offenders and highlights the suspect's alleged continued involvement in illicit activities despite prior legal encounters.
Legal Proceedings and Current Status
At present, the suspect remains in custody at the Panglao Police Station as authorities prepare to file formal charges against him. The cases are being built for violations of Section 5 and Section 11, Article II of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. These sections typically pertain to the sale, trading, administration, dispensation, delivery, distribution, and transportation of dangerous drugs, as well as possession of such substances.
This operation not only disrupts a potential drug supply chain but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts by Philippine law enforcement to combat illegal drug trade in local communities. The successful seizure and arrest demonstrate the vigilance of police units in monitoring and acting on intelligence related to narcotics distribution, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Panglao.
