Police seized over P10.6 million worth of suspected shabu and arrested three suspects, including a barangay councilor, during separate anti-drug operations in Cebu City and Asturias on June 26-27, 2026.
Largest seizure in Barangay Mabolo
The biggest haul occurred at 12:20 a.m. on June 27 in Sitio San Isidro, Barangay Mabolo, Cebu City. Operatives from the Mabolo Police Station's Drug Enforcement Team arrested Cristito Tumampo Jr., 26, a high-value target from Barangay Sawang Calero. Police recovered about 100 grams of suspected shabu valued at P6.8 million, along with marked buy-bust money.
Another buy-bust in Calamba
At 11:10 p.m. on June 26, members of the Cebu City Police Office's City Intelligence Unit arrested James Eduard Nabua, 21, during a buy-bust operation along V. Rama Avenue in Barangay Calamba. Authorities seized around 550 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated value of P3.74 million.
Village official arrested in Asturias
In a separate operation at 4:50 p.m. on June 26, the Asturias Police Station arrested Barangay Councilor Joveniel Cabanes Noel, 41, in Bago, Asturias. Noel, who chairs the Barangay Bago's Peace and Order Committee and is listed as a high-value individual, was caught after allegedly selling a sachet of suspected shabu worth P500 to an undercover officer. Police recovered 22 grams of suspected shabu from Noel, valued at P149,000.
Capt. Jessie Tañola, chief of the Asturias Police Station, said the councilor had been under surveillance after authorities received information about his alleged involvement in illegal drug activities. Intelligence operatives from the Municipal Drug Enforcement Unit confirmed the reports before the buy-bust operation was launched. Tañola added that the investigation is ongoing because Noel refused to identify his alleged drug supplier. Authorities believe he was distributing 25 to 50 grams of shabu each week.
Charges filed
All seized evidence has been turned over to the Philippine National Police Forensic Unit for chemical examination. The suspects will face charges for violating Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
