PDEA Awards P1.6 Million to Seven Civilian Informants in Cebu Ceremony
In a significant move to combat illegal drugs, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has awarded a total of P1,696,349 to seven civilian informants. This reward recognizes their substantial contributions to the seizure of large quantities of shabu and the arrest of drug personalities throughout the year 2025.
Ceremony and Official Handover
The awards were personally presented by Assistant Secretary Israel Ephraim Dickson, the PDEA Deputy Director General for Administration, during a ceremony held at the PDEA Regional Office 7 in Barangay Lahug, Cebu City, on Monday, April 6, 2026. The event was attended by notable figures, including Councilor Pablo Labra II and Police Colonel Enrico Figueroa from the Police Regional Office (PRO) 7, underscoring the collaborative effort in drug enforcement.
Operation: Private Eye Program
Under the government's Operation: Private Eye (OPE) program, these informants received protection through the concealment of their real identities. OPE is an intelligence-driven rewards initiative designed to empower ordinary citizens to assist in suppressing illegal drug activities. The program aims to eliminate fear and public apathy towards illegal operations within communities.
Notable Contributions and Evaluation Process
One informant received over half a million pesos for providing information that led to the seizure of 6.99 kilograms of shabu and the arrest of a drug personality in Sityo Ibabao, Barangay Buaya, Lapu-Lapu City, on May 11, 2025. All rewards underwent a rigorous evaluation by the OPE Reward Committee, which includes officials from PDEA and representatives from the business, academic, and religious sectors.
Commitment to Security and Public Engagement
PDEA has assured that the identities of the informants will remain strictly confidential to ensure their safety. The agency encourages the public to report any suspicious illegal activities in their areas by contacting their hotline at 0917-867-7332. This initiative highlights the ongoing efforts to involve communities in the fight against drug-related crimes.
