ANTI-SMUGGLING DRIVE. Police Regional Office-3 conducts over 360 anti-smuggling and anti-drug operations across Central Luzon from May 11 to 17, 2026. Authorities arrested 244 individuals, including nine high-value suspects, and seized PHP1.88-million smuggled cigarettes and PHP11.5 million worth of shabu. (PNA photo by Jason de Asis)
CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga – The Police Regional Office-3 (PRO-3) conducted more than 360 anti-smuggling and anti-illegal drug operations across Central Luzon from May 11 to 17, resulting in multiple arrests and the seizure of millions of pesos worth of contraband.
In a statement Tuesday, PRO-3 said it carried out 180 anti-smuggling operations during the week, arresting nine individuals and seizing smuggled cigarettes worth PHP1.88 million.
In 189 anti-illegal drug operations, police arrested 244 individuals, including nine high-value individuals (HVIs), and confiscated PHP11.5 million worth of suspected shabu and PHP440,680 worth of marijuana and kush.
PRO-3 attributed the accomplishments to intensified intelligence monitoring, strengthened police visibility, and close coordination among operating units as part of the Philippine National Police’s focused agenda on enhanced anti-criminality efforts.
PRO-3 chief, Brig. Gen. Jess Mendez, commended the operating units for their sustained commitment.
“Our continuous operations against smuggling and illegal drugs reflect our firm commitment to maintaining peace and order across Central Luzon. These accomplishments were achieved through the dedication of our personnel, intensified police presence, and strong coordination with partner agencies and the community,” Mendez said.
He added the intensified operations also support the Safer Cities Program, which aims to strengthen public safety through proactive policing and sustained anti-criminality campaigns. (PNA)