The Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB), Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), and Philippine National Police (PNP) honored a civilian informant for his key role in a ₱605-million drug bust in the Zamboanga Peninsula.
During the Operation Private Eye Awarding Ceremony at Camp Col. Romeo A. Abendan in Zamboanga City, PDEA Director General Undersecretary Isagani R. Nerez commended the informant, identified only by the codename “JERS,” for providing crucial information that led to the dismantling of a major drug syndicate. The operation resulted in the seizure of 89,000 grams of suspected shabu and the arrest of several high-value targets.
“This is not just a victory for PDEA and the PNP, it is a triumph for every Filipino who dares to stand against the menace of illegal drugs that threatens our communities, our families, and our future,” Nerez said.
As recognition, “JERS” received ₱2 million in cash reward from PDEA and another ₱3 million from the PNP Drug Enforcement Group under the Operation Private Eye (OPE) program, a community-based initiative encouraging citizens to report illegal drug activities.
“Operation Private Eye proves that when citizens and law enforcement work hand in hand, we can achieve extraordinary things,” Nerez emphasized. “Solidarity, vigilance, and courage can save lives and protect the future of our nation.”
Nerez also thanked the Private Eye Rewards Committee for ensuring transparency in the reward process and lauded PDEA Regional Office 9 and partner agencies, including the PNP-DEG, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Navy, and Western Mindanao Naval Command, for their teamwork in the successful operation.
“Your dedication, passion, and sacrifice are the foundation of a safer, healthier, and drug-free Philippines,” he said. “Every Filipino has a role to play in this fight—no act is too small, and no voice too quiet when it comes to protecting the future of our nation.”
Nerez reaffirmed PDEA’s support for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision of a Bagong Pilipinas—a progressive, secure, and drug-free nation.
“Together, we will achieve the vision of a drug-free Bagong Pilipinas that every Filipino can be proud of,” he concluded.