Bicol: More than PHP7 million worth of illegal drugs were confiscated and 408 wanted persons were arrested in July, the Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) said Tuesday. PRO-5 spokesperson Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib highlighted the success of 144 anti-illegal drug operations, which resulted in the seizure of a total of 1.1 kilograms of shabu and 544.92 grams of marijuana. These substances were promptly removed from circulation to prevent their potential use in other criminal activities.

According to Philippines News Agency, the PRO-5 continues to conduct information and education campaigns designed to increase public awareness of the adverse effects of illegal drug use. These initiatives aim to encourage active community participation in efforts to curb the spread of illicit substances.

In addition to the anti-drug operations, manhunt efforts led to the arrest of at least 408 wanted individuals. Notably, all 10 of the region's most wanted persons for the month were successfully apprehended. The operations also resulted in the capture of 27 provincial-level wanted persons, 10 city-level wanted persons, 55 municipal-level wanted persons, and 306 other individuals sought by law enforcement.