Masbate city: A 40-year-old male, listed as a high-value individual (HVI), was arrested in a joint police operation in Barangay Pating, Masbate City on Tuesday afternoon.

According to Philippines News Agency, Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) Director Brig. Gen. Nestor Babagay Jr. reported that the suspect, identified only as 'Alex', is a resident of Masbate City who has long been under police monitoring due to his alleged involvement in the illegal drug trade. During the search, the operating team confiscated six large heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing suspected shabu weighing approximately 222 grams, with an estimated standard drug price of PHP1.5 million.

The seized illegal drugs were documented on-site and subjected to proper chain-of-custody procedures. The suspect is facing criminal charges for violation of Republic Act 9165, known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, and is currently detained at the Masbate City Police Station.

Babagay commended the operatives for the successful implementation of the search warrant, emphasizing that this accomplishment highlights the government's continuing efforts in the war against illegal drugs. He stated, "We will not allow these illicit substances to destroy lives and communities. With our strong collaboration with PDEA and other law enforcement units, we will ensure that drug personalities are brought to justice."

A follow-up investigation is underway to trace the suspect's associates and the source of the confiscated drugs.