Davao City Police Office City Director Peter Madria defended the legality of a recent buy-bust operation in Marilog District following concerns raised on social media over the conduct of anti-illegal drug operations.
In a press release statement, Madria said the police office recognizes the public’s right to express opinions but assured Dabawenyos that anti-drug operations are being carried out within legal procedures.
“The Davao City Police Office (DCPO) takes seriously all concerns and opinions expressed by members of the public on social media regarding our anti-illegal drug operations. We respect the people’s right to voice their sentiments; however, we also assure the public that all police operations conducted by the DCPO are carried out within the bounds of the law and in accordance with established operational procedures,” Madria said.
The statement was issued in relation to a recent buy-bust operation in which a 32-year-old tricycle driver identified only as alias “Loloy” was arrested by the Station Drug Enforcement Unit (SDEU) of Marilog Police Station in Purok 3, Barangay Suawan, Marilog District, Davao City on May 5, 2026.
Authorities recovered a sachet of suspected shabu weighing 0.08 grams worth P500, marked money, a wallet, and a National ID from the suspect, who is now under police custody and facing charges for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
According to the DCPO, the confiscated substance tested positive for Methamphetamine Hydrochloride, or shabu, under Chemistry Report No. D-304-26-RFU11. The suspect also allegedly tested positive for illegal drug use under Chemistry Report No. DT-312-26-RFU11.
Madria said the criminal case was formally filed before the Office of the City Prosecutor on May 7, 2026.
“The filing of the case under NPS Docket No. XI-02-INQ-26-E-1324 before the Office of the Assistant City Prosecutor clearly manifests that the operation was supported by evidence and subjected to proper legal procedures,” Madria stated.
Some netizens commented on the DCPO post that the amount involved, P500, was too small. One netizen also commented, “Susihon ug asa nag gikan ang druga, sa mga dagko nga tae, kay kana sila biktima ra pud na” (“Investigate where the drugs came from and go after the big players because these people are victims too”).
The DCPO chief stressed that the police office remains committed to its anti-illegal drug campaign and warned that violators would be held accountable regardless of social status or background.
“The DCPO remains firm and unwavering in its campaign against illegal drugs within Davao City. We reiterate that anyone caught violating the law, regardless of social status, occupation, or background, will be held accountable,” he said.
Madria added that the police continue to monitor individuals previously identified as drug surrenderers who may still be engaging in illegal drug activities.
“In coordination with barangay officials throughout the city, the DCPO strengthens its monitoring, intelligence gathering, and community-based interventions to ensure that violators of the law are properly addressed and prevented from endangering the community,” he said.
He also emphasized that the intensified anti-drug campaign aims to protect residents, particularly children and vulnerable sectors, from the harmful effects of illegal drugs.
“Our intensified anti-illegal drug campaign is anchored on our sworn duty to protect the lives, safety, and future of every Dabawenyo—especially the children, the youth, and vulnerable individuals who are greatly affected by the harmful effects of illegal drugs,” Madria added.
The police official also urged the public to continue cooperating with law enforcement authorities in maintaining Davao City as a “safe, peaceful, and drug-resistant community.”
