PBGEN NOEL B VALLO

₱24.2-M WORTH OF ILLEGAL DRUGS SEIZED, 82 ARRESTED IN WESTERN VISAYAS OPERATIONS

The Philippine National Police (PNP) commended the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO6) for its intensified anti-illegal drug campaign after authorities confiscated more than ₱24.2 million worth of suspected illegal drugs and arrested 82 individuals in a series of operations conducted across Western Visayas from July 1 to 15, 2026.

A total of 61 anti-illegal drug operations resulted in the recovery of approximately 3,569.02 grams of suspected shabu and 21 grams of ma*****na. Among those arrested were 35 High-Value Individuals (HVIs) and 45 listed drug personalities identified as pushers, reflecting sustained police efforts to curb the illegal drug trade in the region.

The Iloilo Police Provincial Office recorded the biggest volume of suspected shabu recovered during the period, followed by the Iloilo City Police Office and the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit 6, contributing significantly to the region's overall accomplishments.

The operation forms part of the PNP's continuing implementation of its Focused Agenda, particularly under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, by strengthening intelligence-driven enforcement and coordinated police actions in support of the peace and order priorities of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., commended the operating units for their sustained efforts while emphasizing that the campaign against illegal drugs remains focused on protecting communities and upholding the rule of law.

"Maganda ang resulta ng mga operasyong ito dahil mas maraming komunidad ang nagiging ligtas. Pero hindi tayo titigil dito. Patuloy nating palalakasin ang ating kampanya laban sa illegal na droga sa pamamagitan ng maayos, legal, at intelligence-driven na operasyon. Ang layunin natin ay protektahan ang bawat pamilyang Pilipino," PGen Nartatez said.

He also reminded police units to remain professional and respect the rights of every individual throughout police operations.

"Ang tagumpay ng isang operasyon ay hindi lang nasusukat sa dami ng nakukumpiska o naaaresto. Mahalaga ring tiyakin na bawat aksyon ng pulis ay naaayon sa batas at may paggalang sa karapatan ng lahat," he added.

The PNP assured the public that anti-illegal drug operations will continue nationwide as part of its commitment to safer communities, consistent with the vision of Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.

(PNP-PIO)

PNP NABS FOUR REGIONAL MOST WANTED PERSONS IN R**E, SEXUAL ASSAULT CASES

The Philippine National Police (PNP) arrested four Regional Most Wanted Persons in separate manhunt operations on July 16 in Laguna, Cebu, Davao del Sur, and Bohol, reinforcing its nationwide campaign to bring fugitives before the courts.

The arrested individuals included the No. 4 Most Wanted Person of Police Regional Office 5, who was apprehended in Laguna for three counts of sexual assault; the No. 7 Most Wanted Person of Police Regional Office 7, arrested in Cebu for three counts of statutory r**e; the No. 9 Most Wanted Person of Police Regional Office 12, arrested in Davao del Sur for two counts of statutory r**e; and the No. 6 Most Wanted Person of Police Regional Office 7, arrested in Bohol for qualified r**e of a minor and lascivious conduct.

All are Filipino nationals of legal age and were arrested by joint police and intelligence teams through the implementation of valid warrants of arrest issued by the courts. They are now under the custody of the respective operating units for proper legal proceedings.

The successful operations reflect the PNP's continuing efforts under its Focused Agenda, particularly the Enhanced Managing Police Operations pillar, which emphasizes intelligence-driven law enforcement and the effective implementation of court-issued warrants. The operations likewise support the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to intensify the campaign against criminality while ensuring adherence to the rule of law.

PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., commended the operating units for their coordinated efforts and stressed that the campaign against wanted persons remains a priority.

"Hindi natin hahayaang manatiling nagtatago ang mga taong may kinakaharap na kaso. Ang pagpapatupad ng warrant of arrest ay mahalagang bahagi ng paghahatid ng hustisya at pagprotekta sa ating mga komunidad. Patuloy nating palalakasin ang ating manhunt operations sa buong bansa upang matiyak na walang makakaiwas sa proseso ng batas," said PGen Nartatez.

He likewise reminded all police units to sustain close coordination with partner agencies and local communities to ensure the swift implementation of warrants while fully respecting the legal rights of every individual.

The PNP remains steadfast in pursuing wanted persons nationwide as it continues to uphold public safety and strengthen the people's trust through Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman.

(PNP-PIO)

PNP SEIZES ₱9.57-M WORTH OF EQUIPMENT IN ANTI-ILLEGAL MINING OPERATION IN AGUSAN DEL SUR

The Philippine National Police (PNP), in coordination with partner government agencies, confiscated an estimated ₱9.57 million worth of mining equipment during an anti-illegal mining operation in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, late Thursday evening, July 16.

The operation was carried out by police personnel in Caraga, in coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Bayugan, and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) Regional Office 13.

Authorities recovered two backhoes, three gasoline-powered water pump engines, a sluice box, a battery, and other mining equipment believed to have been used in illegal mining activities. No individuals were present at the site during the operation. The confiscated equipment was turned over to the appropriate government offices for documentation and proper disposition.

The operation forms part of the PNP's continuing environmental law enforcement efforts under its Focused Agenda, particularly through Enhanced Managing Police Operations, while supporting the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen the protection of the country's natural resources through sustained inter-agency cooperation.

PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., commended the operating teams and emphasized the importance of sustained enforcement against environmental violations.

"Ang kalikasan ay yaman ng bawat Pilipino. Hindi tayo titigil sa pagpapatupad ng batas laban sa mga gawaing sumisira sa ating likas na yaman. Patuloy nating paiigtingin ang koordinasyon sa ating partner agencies para mapanagot ang mga lumalabag at maprotektahan ang kapakanan ng ating mga komunidad," PGen Nartatez said.

He also encouraged the public to continue reporting suspected illegal mining and other environmental violations to the nearest police station or concerned government agencies.

The PNP remains committed to advancing Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman, by working closely with partner agencies to safeguard the environment and uphold the rule of law for the benefit of present and future generations.

(PNP-PIO)

PNP: NO EXEMPTION FROM THE LAW AS RETIRED COP FALLS IN CAMARINES SUR ANTI-ILLEGAL DRUG OPERATION

The Philippine National Police (PNP) continues to uphold accountability within its ranks as a retired police officer was arrested in an anti-illegal drug operation conducted in Iriga City, Camarines Sur on the evening of July 16, 2026.

The operation was carried out jointly by the PNP Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG), Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group (IMEG), the Police Regional Office 5, the Camarines Sur Police Provincial Office, the Iriga City Police Station, and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

It resulted in the arrest of a 45-year-old retired police staff sergeant and the recovery of suspected shabu weighing about 9.6 grams with an estimated standard drug price of ₱65,280.00, along with other pieces of non-drug pieces of evidence.

The suspect was informed of the reason for his arrest and was apprised of his constitutional rights. The required inventory of the seized evidence was conducted in the presence of the mandatory witnesses, in accordance with existing procedures. No untoward incident was reported during the operation.

The PNP emphasized that no one is exempt from the law, including former members of the police organization. The operation reflects the continuing implementation of the PNP Focused Agenda, particularly under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, through intelligence-driven and lawful enforcement efforts in support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s campaign for safer communities and a stronger rule of law.

PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., said the operation sends a clear message that the PNP will never tolerate illegal activities, regardless of who is involved.

"Malinaw ang ating paninindigan—walang puwang ang ilegal na gawain, kahit dating miyembro pa ng PNP ang sangkot. Hindi natin maaaring ipagwalang-bahala ang anumang paglabag sa batas. Ang tiwalang ibinibigay sa atin ng publiko ay dapat laging pinangangalagaan, at bahagi nito ang pagpapatupad ng batas nang patas, walang kinikilingan, at may paggalang sa karapatan ng bawat isa," said PGen Nartatez.

The PNP assured the public that it will continue to intensify lawful and intelligence-driven operations against illegal drugs while upholding professionalism, respecting human rights, and observing due process, in line with its commitment to Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.

(PNP-PIO)

PNP NETS 11 DRUG SUSPECTS, RECOVERS OVER ₱19M WORTH OF SHABU IN NATIONWIDE OPERATIONS

The Philippine National Police (PNP) sustained its nationwide campaign against illegal drugs following a series of law enforcement operations conducted from July 15 to the early hours of July 16, 2026, resulting in the confiscation of more than 2.7 kilograms of suspected shabu with an estimated Standard Drug Price (SDP) of over ₱19 million and the arrest of 11 drug suspects, including several identified as High-Value Individuals (HVIs).

The operations were carried out by police units in coordination with other law enforcement agencies in Regions 2, 4A, 5, 8, 10, and the National Capital Region.

Among the significant operations was the service of a warrant of arrest for a murder case in Alicia, Isabela, which led to the recovery of approximately one kilogram of suspected shabu valued at ₱6.8 million, along with fi****ms and other pieces of evidence. In Camarines Sur, a joint anti-drug operation resulted in the arrest of three HVIs and the confiscation of around 550 grams of suspected shabu worth ₱3.74 million.

Separate buy-bust operations in Iligan City, Batangas City, Manila, Tacloban City, and Naga City also led to the arrest of additional suspects and the seizure of suspected shabu weighing between 173 grams and 400 grams per operation.

All arrested individuals are now under police custody for the filing of appropriate charges, while the recovered evidence has been turned over for proper documentation and laboratory examination.

The successful operations form part of the PNP's continuing efforts under its Focused Agenda, particularly the Enhanced Managing Police Operations pillar, supporting the peace and order initiatives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. through intelligence-driven and coordinated law enforcement actions against illegal drugs.

Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Chief of the PNP, commended the operating units for their dedication and professionalism.

"Patuloy nating hahabulin ang mga sangkot sa ilegal na droga sa pamamagitan ng maayos, legal, at intelligence-driven na operasyon. Kasabay nito, nananatili nating iginagalang ang karapatan ng bawat indibidwal habang mahigpit na ipinapatupad ang batas," PGen Nartatez said.

The PNP remains committed to intensifying lawful anti-drug operations across the country as it continues to advance Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.

(PNP-PIO)

PNP, BOC, PA JOINT OPERATION LEADS TO RECOVERY OF ₱6.9-M ALLEGED SMUGGLED CI******ES

The Philippine National Police (PNP) recovered an estimated ₱6.9 million worth of alleged smuggled and untaxed ci******es during a joint operation in Barangay Muricay, Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur, in the early hours of Thursday, July 16.

Acting on verified information, personnel of the Pagadian City Police Station, together with the Bureau of Customs, the Philippine Army, and other law enforcement partners, recovered 40 master cases and 240 reams of alleged smuggled ci******es that had been abandoned in a vacant lot.

The recovered items included various cigarette brands and were immediately inventoried in the presence of Bureau of Customs representatives and local officials before being brought to police custody for proper documentation and disposition.

Based on the initial assessment of the Bureau of Customs, the recovered ci******es have an estimated value of ₱6,908,000.00. Authorities are now conducting further investigation to determine the source of the alleged contraband and identify the individuals responsible for abandoning the shipment.

The operation highlights the strong collaboration among law enforcement agencies in combating smuggling and protecting government revenues, in line with the Enhanced Managing Police Operations pillar of the PNP Focused Agenda. It also supports the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to intensify the campaign against illegal trade.

PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. commended the operating units for their swift and coordinated response.

"Magandang patunay ito na kapag sama-sama ang ating mga ahensya, mas nagiging epektibo ang pagpapatupad ng batas. We will continue to strengthen our operations against smuggling while ensuring that every action is guided by the rule of law," PGen Nartatez said.

"Hindi tayo titigil sa pakikipag-ugnayan sa ating partner agencies upang matukoy ang mga responsable at maprotektahan ang interes ng ating mamamayan at ng ating ekonomiya," he added.

The PNP assured the public that the investigation will continue until those responsible are identified, as it remains committed to Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman through responsive and coordinated law enforcement.

(PNP-PIO)

PNP ON FULL ELECTION MODE AS BARMM ELECTION PERIOD OFFICIALLY BEGINS

As the election period for the 2026 Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary Elections officially begins today, July 16, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has placed its election security operations in full swing, mobilizing thousands of personnel to ensure peaceful, orderly, honest, and credible elections.

Following the formal send-off and turnover ceremony held on July 14 at Camp BGen Salipada K. Pendatun in Parang, Maguindanao del Norte, the Police Regional Office Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO BAR), together with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and other law enforcement agencies, has activated its security deployment across the region.

A total of 8,299 PNP personnel have been designated for election security duties, consisting of 4,983 deployable personnel from PRO BAR, 1,316 augmentation personnel from National Support Units (NSUs), and 2,000 augmentation personnel from other Police Regional Offices (PROs). These forces will work closely with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) and partner agencies to maintain peace and order throughout the election period.

The election period runs from July 16 to September 29, 2026, with the implementation of the nationwide gun ban taking effect today. Election Day is scheduled on September 14, 2026.

The intensified security preparations support the PNP Focused Agenda on Enhanced Managing Police Operations, ensuring police units remain mission-ready, responsive, and closely coordinated with other government agencies. The initiative also aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to protect the integrity of the electoral process and ensure the safety of every voter.

PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., assured the public that the organization is fully prepared to secure the BARMM parliamentary elections while remaining strictly non-partisan.

"Simula na ng election period, at kasabay nito ang mas pinaigting nating pagbabantay. Ang PNP ay handang gampanan ang mandato nito nang may integridad, propesyonalismo, at pagiging patas. Sisiguraduhin nating ligtas ang bawat komunidad at malayang makakaboto ang bawat mamamayan." PGen Nartatez said.

The Chief PNP likewise reminded all deployed personnel to uphold discipline and professionalism throughout the election season.

"Nasa inyo ang malaking responsibilidad na pangalagaan ang kapayapaan sa buong panahon ng halalan. Maging alerto, maging patas, at sundin ang batas sa lahat ng pagkakataon. Ang tiwala ng publiko ang pinakamahalagang dapat nating ingatan." he added.

The PNP also urged the public to strictly observe election laws, particularly the gun ban now in effect, and to immediately report any election-related incidents or violations to the nearest police station or appropriate authorities.

Together with COMELEC and other partner agencies, the PNP remains steadfast in advancing Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman, ensuring that every Bangsamoro voter can safely and freely exercise the right to vote.

(PNP-PIO)

PNP STATEMENT ON RECENT INCIDENTS INVOLVING MOTORCYCLE TAXI RIDERS

The Philippine National Police (PNP) recognizes the public's concern following the recent incidents involving motorcycle taxi riders. The message seen on the back of a rider's helmet reflects the simple hope of every hardworking Filipino—to return home safely to their loved ones after a day's work.

The PNP assures the public that the suspects in these incidents have already been arrested through the swift actions of our police personnel. As the cases move through the justice system, we remain committed to ensuring that all those responsible are held accountable in accordance with the law.

While these cases have been addressed through the arrest of the suspects, we will continue to work closely with motorcycle ride-hailing companies, local government units, and other stakeholders to strengthen measures that help protect riders, passengers, and the public while preventing similar incidents.

We encourage everyone to remain vigilant and immediately report suspicious persons or activities through the Unified 911 emergency hotline or to the nearest police station. Prompt reporting enables law enforcement to respond quickly and helps keep our communities safe.

The PNP remains steadfast in its commitment to protect every Filipino and maintain safe and peaceful communities. We will continue to carry out our mandate with professionalism and dedication to ensure that those who leave home to earn an honest living can do so with greater confidence and security.

PGEN JOSE MELENCIO C. NARTATEZ, JR.
Chief, Philippine National Police

PNP REPORTS 20.6% DROP IN FOCUS CRIMES THREE MONTHS AFTER SAFER CITIES INITIATIVE LAUNCH

More than three months after the launch of the Safer Cities Initiative, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has recorded encouraging gains in public safety, with the country's eight focus crimes declining by 20.6% while police enforcement of local ordinances increased by 21.74%, reflecting stronger police visibility and community order.

Launched on April 6, 2026 under the leadership of DILG Secretary Juanito Victor "Jonvic" C. Remulla, the Safer Cities Initiative has strengthened police visibility and local ordinance enforcement across the country in support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s peace and public safety agenda. Through close coordination between the PNP and local government units, the initiative continues to promote safer, more orderly communities.

PNP records show that from April 6 to July 4, 2026, total focus crime incidents dropped to 7,883, compared to 9,506 cases during the previous three-month period. Significant decreases were noted in r**e, carnapping, physical injury, robbery, theft, homicide, and murder. During the same period, police arrested or apprehended more than 2.82 million individuals for various ordinance violations, an increase of over 505,000 compared to the preceding period.

The PNP said these results demonstrate that consistent enforcement of local ordinances, coupled with increased police visibility, helps discourage criminal activity by promoting discipline and strengthening community presence. These efforts are aligned with the PNP Focused Agenda, particularly under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which emphasizes intelligence-driven, preventive, and community-centered policing.

Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Chief of the PNP, welcomed the initial results while stressing that public safety remains a shared responsibility.

"Maganda ang ipinapakita ng datos, pero hindi rito nagtatapos ang ating trabaho. Ang tunay na sukatan ng tagumpay ay kung mas ligtas at mas kampante ang ating mga kababayan sa kanilang mga komunidad. Patuloy nating palalakasin ang police visibility at pakikipagtulungan sa mga lokal na pamahalaan upang mapanatili ang kaayusan." PGen Nartatez said.

He added, "These gains remind us that prevention is just as important as enforcement. Kapag may disiplina, may presensya ng pulis, at may aktibong komunidad, mas maliit ang pagkakataon para makagawa ng krimen. We will continue improving our strategies while ensuring that every police action remains lawful, fair, and respectful of the rights of every individual."

The PNP assured the public that it will continue to assess and strengthen the implementation of the Safer Cities Initiative nationwide, sustaining crime prevention efforts while fostering stronger partnerships with communities in pursuit of safer neighborhoods. These continuing efforts embody the vision of Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman.

(PNP-PIO)