PAMPANGA, Philippines – A 31-year-old regional high-value target was arrested in a drug bust in Lubao, Pampanga, on March 24, 2025. Pampanga police, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region 3, apprehended the suspect during a buy-bust operation along the Bypass Road in Barangay Sta. Cruz. Authorities recovered 5.2 grams of suspected shabu worth ₱35,360, a Colt .45 caliber firearm without a serial number, an empty magazine, and a marked ₱1,000 bill. The suspect, a resident of Barangay San Roque Arbol, now faces charges for violating the Dangerous Drugs Act, Firearms Law, and election-related offenses.
Police records show that the suspect was previously arrested for drug-related charges in 2018 but was released on probation. Despite this, he allegedly continued illegal drug activities, supplying shabu in Lubao and neighboring areas. Law enforcement intensified surveillance following reports of his involvement, leading to the sting operation that resulted in his arrest. Officials say the successful operation is part of ongoing efforts to crack down on illegal drugs and criminality in the province.
Pampanga Provincial Police Office director PCOL Jay Dimaandal commended the operatives for their efforts in apprehending the suspect, stressing the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) unwavering commitment to curbing illegal drug trade. “This arrest sends a strong message that we will not tolerate illegal drugs and crime in Pampanga. Our operations will continue to target drug networks and ensure violators are held accountable,” Dimaandal said.