21/08/2026
PNP ANTI-DRUG DRIVE NETS OVER ₱227 MILLION IN ILLEGAL DRUGS, 12 ARRESTED IN CORDILLERA
The Philippine National Police (PNP) intensified its campaign against illegal drugs in the Cordillera region, resulting in the seizure of more than ₱227 million worth of illegal drugs and the arrest of 12 individuals in operations conducted from August 10 to 16, 2026.
Police units in the Cordillera Administrative Region carried out 17 operations during the period, including ma*****na eradication activities, buy-bust operations, implementation of warrants, and police responses. These efforts led to the recovery of approximately 1.12 million fully grown ma*****na plants, 50,000 seedlings, 150 grams of dried ma*****na leaves and fruiting tops, and 8.49 grams of suspected shabu, with a combined estimated value of ₱227,015,732 based on standard drug pricing.
The 12 arrested individuals are now facing appropriate charges under Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. The operations were carried out by police units across the region, with significant recoveries recorded in Kalinga, Mountain Province, Baguio City, Apayao, and Benguet.
Chief PNP Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said the results show the importance of staying consistent in the fight against illegal drugs, especially in areas where ma*****na cultivation continues to be a concern.
“Malaking bagay na napipigilan natin ang mga ito bago pa makarating sa ating mga komunidad. Pero hindi dito nagtatapos ang trabaho. Tuloy lang tayo, kasi bawat operasyon may katumbas na mga pamilyang pinoprotektahan natin,” PGen Nartatez said.
The operations form part of the PNP’s Focused Agenda, particularly Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which strengthens police action through focused operations, proper coordination, and responsible enforcement while respecting the rights of every person.
The PNP continues to work with local communities and partner agencies in support of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to keep communities safe and protect families, especially young people, from the effects of illegal drugs.
PGen Nartatez said the PNP will continue to focus on areas where illegal drugs are being produced or moved, while ensuring that police operations remain within the bounds of the law.
The PNP will sustain lawful and focused operations against illegal drugs while strengthening prevention, community cooperation, and accountability, consistent with its commitment to a “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman.”
(PNP-PIO)