CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — A major blow was dealt to the illegal drug trade in Central Luzon with the arrest of a suspected high-value individual (HVI) during a pre-dawn buy-bust operation that yielded an estimated ₱749,839 worth of marijuana-based products.
The suspect, identified by the alias “Jim,” 27, and a resident of Barangay Sapang Biabas, Mabalacat City, was cornered by operatives from the Station Drug Enforcement Unit (SDEU) of the Mabalacat City Police Station around 12:45 AM on July 25. The operation forms part of intensified anti-illegal drug efforts in the region.
Seized from the suspect were 2,121 grams of dried marijuana leaves valued at ₱464,839, approximately 140 grams of suspected premium kush worth ₱231,000, and 12 vape cartridges infused with marijuana oil estimated at ₱54,000. Authorities pegged the total value of the haul at nearly three-quarters of a million pesos.
Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) Director Police Brigadier General Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr. lauded the operation, noting that the bust reflects the Philippine National Police’s ongoing commitment to its internal transformation and anti-crime strategy.
“This operation is a testament to our relentless campaign against illegal drugs and our commitment to the PNP’s three strategic pillars, especially in ensuring swift, responsive public service,” said PBGEN Peñones. “The arrest of this high-value target and the seizure of substantial drug contraband sends a strong message to those who continue to peddle narcotics in our communities.”
The suspect remains in police custody and will face charges for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (Republic Act No. 9165). Authorities are continuing investigations to determine the suspect’s potential links to larger drug networks operating in Central Luzon.
Officials reiterated their call for public cooperation in the fight against illegal drugs and urged residents to report suspicious activities through local police stations or community hotlines. — JASON DE ASIS