An estimated P80 million worth of illegal drugs was intercepted at sea as authorities arrested two high-value suspects, including a Malaysian national, during a buy-bust operation in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.

The suspects yielded around 60 kilograms of dried marijuana, including kush and high-grade stalks and leaves.

At around 8:15 a.m. on January 25, 2026, a joint anti-illegal drug operation was conducted at a beachside hotel in Barangay Pasiagan, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, leading to the arrest of alias “Jerry” and alias “Chomel,” a Malaysian national identified as a high-value individual.

The operation was led by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA-BARMM), Tawi-Tawi Provincial Office, with the support of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-4, Tawi-Tawi Provincial Police Office, Bongao Municipal Police Station, PDEU-TTPO, and the 51st Special Action Company of the PNP Special Action Force (PNP-SAF).

Recovered from the suspects’ possession were vacuum-sealed packs containing 60 kilograms of marijuana and the marked P1,000 bill used in the buy-bust operation.

PNP Acting Chief P/Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. commended the operatives, stressing that the arrest sends a clear message to drug groups operating in border areas.

“This operation shows that coordination works. Kahit sa malalayong lugar, tuloy-tuloy ang laban natin kontra ilegal na droga,” Nartatez said.

“We will not allow our coastal and border communities to be used as entry points for illegal drugs,” he added.

Nartatez emphasized that the PNP remains firm in going after high-value individuals, regardless of status or nationality.

“Walang pinipili ang batas. Kung may lumalabag, kikilos agad tayo. This is about protecting our communities and our future,” he said.

After proper documentation, inventory, and marking, the arrested suspects and all seized evidence were turned over to the PDEA Provincial Office in Tawi-Tawi for proper disposition and the filing of appropriate charges.

The PNP reaffirmed its commitment to sustained, intelligence-driven operations in partnership with other law enforcement agencies, particularly in vulnerable border areas.