Bicol: The Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) has confiscated PHP1.27 million worth of illegal drugs during weeklong operations from March 31 to April 6. A total of 22 operations were conducted across various parts of Bicol, resulting in the arrest of 29 individuals, including three high-value targets and 26 street-level individuals involved in illegal drug activities.

According to Philippines News Agency, PRO-5 Director Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon reported that the confiscated drugs included an estimated 187.29 grams of shabu and 7.50 grams of marijuana. Among the provinces, Camarines Sur reported the highest drug seizure with PHP587,928, followed by Albay with PHP489,804, Naga City with PHP74,956, Sorsogon with PHP74,184, Camarines Norte with PHP44,200, and Masbate with PHP3,400. Catanduanes maintained zero drug seizures for the week, indicating effective implementation of anti-illegal drug strategies.

Dizon emphasized the cooperation of the local government and residents in the campaign against drugs. The arrested suspects are in police custody and will face charges for violating Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Dizon expressed commitment to continuous monitoring and intensified operations to address illegal drug problems in the region, aiming for a safe and peaceful Bicol Region.

Meanwhile, Coast Guard District Bicol Commander Commodore Ivan Roldan attended the opening ceremony of 43 PNP personnel set to undergo a five-day Water Search and Rescue training in Santo Domingo, Albay. Roldan highlighted the training's focus on improving PNP personnel's skills in responding to water-related emergencies, covering essential areas such as search and rescue operations, victim retrieval, and water survival techniques. He emphasized the program's importance for enhancing the emergency response capabilities of the PNP, especially in disaster-prone areas frequently impacted by natural disasters.