High-Value Barangay Official Arrested in Naval Drug Buy-Bust

A 41-year-old barangay official tagged as a High-Value Individual in the government’s anti-drug drive was arrested in Barangay Haguikhikan on December 26, 2025, during a joint buy-bust operation by local police, provincial intelligence units, and PDEA-Region 8. Authorities seized about 0.77 grams of suspected shabu worth ₱5,236, along with marked buy-bust money and additional drug packages. The suspect is now in custody with charges filed against him.

Photo credit: Naval Police Station, Biliran PPO

NAVAL, Biliran – A 41-year-old barangay official, classified as a High-Value Individual (HVI) in the government’s anti-illegal drugs campaign, was successfully apprehended during a coordinated buy-bust operation conducted in Barangay Haguikhikan here on the afternoon of December 26, 2025.

The strategic law enforcement operation was spearheaded by the Naval Municipal Police Station (MPS) under the leadership of Police Major Sherwin Amando L. Machete, with crucial support from the Biliran Provincial Police Office (BPPO) Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU) and agents from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Region 8. The joint team executed the mission with precision, ensuring compliance with all legal protocols to safeguard the integrity of the operation.

Upon the suspect’s arrest – a male resident of the targeted barangay – authorities recovered substantial evidence linking him to illegal drug activities:

- One sealed package of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as “shabu,” which was the subject of the controlled buy transaction

- Three additional packages of suspected shabu found in the suspect’s possession during a thorough search

- The marked ₱1,000 buy-bust money used to facilitate the transaction

Forensic examination determined that the confiscated illegal substances weigh an estimated 0.77 grams, with a corresponding value of ₱5,236.00 as set by the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB).

In a statement following the operation, PMAJ Machete commended the dedication and seamless coordination of all participating units, emphasizing that the arrest underscores the local police force’s unwavering commitment to eradicating the scourge of illegal drugs from the community. “This successful operation is a clear message to those who attempt to profit from destroying lives through drug trafficking – we will not rest until we achieve our goal of making Naval a drug-free municipality,” he stated, adding that ongoing intelligence gathering and community partnerships remain key pillars of their anti-drug campaign.

The suspect is currently in the custody of the Naval MPS, where he is being processed in accordance with standard procedures. Appropriate criminal charges have already been filed against him before the relevant judicial authorities, as law enforcement agencies move forward with prosecuting the case to ensure full accountability under Philippine law.