Photo courtesy of Philippine National Police/Facebook.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported on Tuesday that a week of intensified operations in Central Visayas resulted in the seizure of over Php 5 million worth of illegal drugs, the recovery of 35 firearms, and the arrest of 434 individuals.
Under the direction of PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., authorities conducted intelligence-driven operations from February 8 to 14, 2026, targeting illegal drugs, wanted persons, unlawful gambling, and firearm violations.
Drug enforcement activities led to the confiscation of 769.27 grams of shabu valued at more than Php 5.2 million and one gram of dried marijuana worth Php 1,000. A total of 196 individuals were arrested in connection with illegal drugs, including six high-value targets and 190 newly identified suspects.
Manhunt operations also recorded notable results. Police apprehended 12 most-wanted persons, two at the regional level, seven at the provincial level, and three at the municipal level, along with 128 other wanted individuals during the same period.
In efforts against illegal gambling, 73 suspects were arrested for involvement in unauthorized number games, card games, cara y cruz, and cockfighting.
Firearm enforcement yielded the recovery of 35 guns, and 25 individuals were taken into custody for related violations, contributing to the reduction of loose firearms in the community.
The PNP noted that these actions are part of its Focused Agenda, particularly the Enhanced Managing Police Operations program, which aims to maintain consistent, strategic, and results-oriented law enforcement to safeguard communities.