DRUG BUST. A drug buy-bust operation in Tacloban City as seen in this April 6, 2026 photo. The Police Regional Office-Eastern Visayas (PRO-8) reported a total of 1,107 arrests and the seizure of illegal drugs, firearms, and other contraband worth PHP34.94 million during an intensified campaign across the region last month. (Photo courtesy of Tacloban CPO)
TACLOBAN CITY – The Police Regional Office (PRO) 8 (Eastern Visayas) reported Wednesday that 1,107 arrests were made and illegal drugs, firearms and other contraband worth PHP34.9 million were seized following April’s month-long law enforcement campaign in the region.
In a report, the PRO-8 said it conducted 956 operations last month, targeting various forms of criminal activity, and its anti-drug campaign produced the highest-value confiscations.
Authorities seized 2,884.8 grams of shabu and 1,009.9 grams of marijuana valued at PHP19.7 million, resulting in the arrest of 82 individuals in 75 operations.
PRO-8 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Jason Capoy said in a statement that the series of arrests underlines their ongoing commitment to combat illegal drugs and to safeguard the community.
“We will continue to conduct intelligence-driven operations and work closely with our partner agencies to ensure that illegal drugs find no foothold in Eastern Visayas,” he said.
All suspects are now facing charges for violations of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Meanwhile, in operations against illegal possession of firearms and explosives, authorities conducted 140 operations, resulting in the recovery, surrender, or confiscation of 145 firearms and one explosive device.
Anti-illegal gambling operations also yielded positive results, with 110 operations resulting in 318 arrests and the confiscation of Php 138,426 in bet money.
Capoy lauded law enforcement personnel’s efforts and underscored the agency’s commitment to sustaining its intensified operations. (PNA)