In a significant crackdown on illegal drug activities, the Bicol Police Regional Office (PRO-5) reported the arrest of 120 individuals and the seizure of PHP17.2 million worth of illegal drugs in January 2025. The operations, which spanned across the region, resulted in the confiscation of 2.53 kilograms of shabu and 52.60 grams of marijuana, as stated by PRO-5 Director Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon. Among those apprehended, 20 were identified as high-value targets, while the remaining 100 were street-level drug dealers. The province of Albay saw the highest value of drugs seized at PHP6.15 million, followed by Naga City at PHP4.48 million, Camarines Sur at PHP3.77 million, Camarines Norte at PHP2.36 million, Masbate at P397,800, Sorsogon at PHP91,340, and Catanduanes at PHP319.60. Dizon emphasized the importance of public education on the dangers of drug use, noting that PRO-5 has been actively using social media to spread awareness and encourage community involvement in the fight against drugs. He reiterated the police’s commitment to continue their anti-drug efforts until the Bicol region is free from the scourge of illegal drugs. In addition to drug enforcement, PRO-5 also monitored election-related activities, recording eight gun ban violations in January, with Albay reporting four and the other provinces one each. Furthermore, 104 firearms were voluntarily surrendered or deposited for safekeeping, with Camarines Norte leading with 42 firearms, followed by other provinces. The police also conducted 4,124 checkpoints and maintained high visibility across the region to prevent criminal activities, while intensifying patrols, intelligence operations, and community engagements to proactively combat crime.
