Bicol: Nearly PHP12 million worth of illegal drugs were confiscated, and 183 drug personalities were arrested in January, the Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) said on Wednesday. Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib, PRO-5 spokesperson, said of the 156 anti-drug operations, 263 cases were filed for violations of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
According to Philippines News Agency, the operations yielded 1.7 kilograms of shabu and 35.1 grams of marijuana, with a total estimated street value of PHP11.86 million. Among the provinces, Camarines Sur had the highest with PHP3.89 million worth of confiscated drugs, followed by Albay with PHP3.58 million, Camarines Norte with PHP3.10 million, Naga City with PHP719,560, Masbate with PHP431,120, Sorsogon with PHP99,812, and Catanduanes with PHP29,482.
The report highlighted that the operations not only focused on illegal drugs but also on illegal firearms. A total of 67 operations were conducted across the region, resulting in the seizure and safekeeping of 151 assorted firearms. The operations led to the arrest of 27 individuals, from whom 126 firearms were seized, surrendered, or recovered, while an additional 25 firearms were voluntarily turned in for safekeeping. Twenty cases were filed in court.
In addition to the drug and firearms operations, at least 375 wanted persons were arrested. The breakdown of these arrests included seven individuals wanted at the regional level, 31 at the provincial level, 17 at the city level, 62 at the municipal level, and 255 at other levels.
Furthermore, 53 focused anti-illegal gambling operations by the PRO-5 resulted in the arrest of 167 suspects involved in illegal gambling activities in the region in January. Law enforcement efforts led to the confiscation of PHP334,335 in betting money from various forms of illegal gambling, including illegal card games, cockfighting, jueteng, and other prohibited gambling activities in violation of existing laws.
In a statement, PRO-5 acting Regional Director Brig. Gen. Erosito Miranda commended the operating units for their professionalism, dedication, and perseverance. "Our personnel exemplify the true spirit of law enforcement, guardians of peace committed to protecting our communities," he said.
