The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), in a coordinated effort with local police forces, successfully dismantled two drug dens in the Zamboanga Peninsula, resulting in the arrest of five high-value individuals and the rescue of three minors. These operations, conducted on February 19 and 20, 2026, mark a significant blow to illegal drug activities in the region.
First Operation in Pagadian City
On Friday, February 20, PDEA agents, supported by the Pagadian municipal police, executed a buy-bust operation in Purok Rubia, San Francisco, Pagadian City. This led to the arrest of two suspects, identified by aliases Miguel and Armando. During the raid, authorities dismantled a drug den and rescued three minors who were present at the scene.
The minors were immediately transferred to the Pagadian City Social Welfare and Development Office for assessment of their mental discernment and to ensure their safety and well-being. Seized from this operation were eight grams of suspected shabu, valued at approximately P54,400, along with buy-bust money and various drug paraphernalia.
Charges and Legal Actions
Miguel and Armando now face multiple charges under Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Specifically, they are accused of violating Sections 5 (sale of dangerous drugs), 6 (maintenance of a drug den), 7 (employees and visitors of a drug den), 11 (possession of dangerous drugs), and 12 (possession of drug paraphernalia).
Second Operation in Dipolog City
In a separate operation on Thursday, February 19, PDEA agents, with assistance from the Dipolog municipal police, conducted a search warrant operation in Purok Kamonggay, Galas, Dipolog City. This resulted in the arrest of three additional suspects, known by aliases Junmar, Joel, and Johnrey, and the dismantling of a second drug den.
From this raid, authorities confiscated 14 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of P95,200, a mobile phone, and drug paraphernalia. The suspects will be charged with violations of Sections 6, 7, 11, and 12 of RA 9165, reflecting their involvement in maintaining and operating the drug den.
Collaborative Efforts and Impact
PDEA-Zamboanga Peninsula Director Bryan Babang emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaboration in these successful operations. The support from the Pagadian and Dipolog municipal police was crucial in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the raids.
These operations not only disrupt the local drug trade but also highlight the ongoing commitment of Philippine authorities to combat drug-related crimes and protect vulnerable individuals, such as minors, from exposure to dangerous environments. The arrests and seizures serve as a deterrent to other potential offenders in the region.
