HVT yields P3.4-M shabu in Lanao del Sur drug bust

AUTHORITIES have arrested a businessman tagged as high-value target (HVT) and seized P3.4 million worth of illegal drugs in an anti-drug operation in Lanao del Sur, officials said Saturday, May 24, 2025.

Gil Cesario Castro, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA-Barmm) director, identified the arrested suspect as alias Tammy, 53, a resident of Dimayon village, Taraka.

Tammy was arrested around 11 a.m. Friday, May 23, in Sundig village, Taraka.

Police Brigadier General Romeo Macapaz, Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR) director, said Tammy was arrested after selling a transparent plastic bag containing approximately 500 grams of shabu to an undercover agent.

The value of the shabu seized from the suspect is P3.4 million. Also recovered from him were buy-bust money, a mobile phone, wallet and identification cards.

The anti-drug operation was launched by personnel of PDEA-Lanao del Sur with the support of the police units.

“This successful operation highlights the continuing inter-agency collaboration and the unwavering commitment of the PDEA to eradicating illegal drug activities in Barmm,” Castro said.

Tammy was detained while charges for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 will be filed against him.

PRO-BAR ensures the continued aggressive conduct of anti-illegal drug operations targeting high-value individuals and local personalities involved in drug activities, Macapaz added. (SunStar Zamboanga)