The Philippine National Police (PNP) underscored the importance of early detection and strong coordination between schools and law enforcement following the recovery of suspected illegal drugs inside a public school in Barangay Addition Hills, Mandaluyong City, on July 1, 2026.

According to the PNP, the incident prevented a potentially larger problem and reinforced efforts to keep schools safe for learners.

The case began when school personnel conducted an internal inquiry over reports of a missing cellphone and cash. During the process, an 18-year-old Grade 11 student allegedly attempted to leave the school premises but was stopped by security personnel.

A subsequent inspection, conducted with the assistance of responding police officers, led to the recovery of an eco-bag containing several sachets of suspected high-grade marijuana, commonly known as kush, along with drug paraphernalia.

A second student, a 17-year-old Child in Conflict with the Law (CICL), was also found in possession of additional sachets concealed inside a canister.

Authorities recovered a total of 33 sachets of suspected kush weighing approximately 40 grams, with an estimated standard drug price of ₱60,000.

The 18-year-old student was placed under police custody for the filing of appropriate charges and subjected to standard legal procedures. Meanwhile, the minor was turned over to the proper social welfare authorities and brought to a youth care facility in accordance with existing child protection laws.

The PNP said the incident demonstrates how prompt action by school officials, coupled with immediate coordination with the Department of Education, local government authorities, and the police, can prevent illegal drugs from reaching students.

It added that the operation reflects the continuing implementation of the PNP Focused Agenda under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which aims to strengthen preventive policing and community partnerships in support of the administration’s goal of creating safer schools and communities.

PNP Chief P/Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. commended school administrators, teachers, and security personnel for their vigilance and swift coordination with authorities.

“Ang pinakamahalagang mensahe rito ay ang halaga ng maagap na pagkilos. Dahil sa pagiging mapagmatyag ng ating mga guro at school personnel, naagapan ang isang sitwasyon na maaaring magdulot ng mas malaking panganib sa ating mga kabataan. Ipagpatuloy natin ang malapit na ugnayan ng PNP, DepEd, mga magulang, at buong komunidad upang mapanatiling ligtas ang ating mga paaralan,” Nartatez said.

He also reminded parents and guardians to remain actively involved in their children’s lives and encouraged students to stay away from illegal drugs and seek help from trusted adults when necessary.

“Hindi lang trabaho ng pulis ang pagprotekta sa kabataan. Sama-sama nating bantayan sila. Kapag nagkakaisa ang paaralan, pamilya, komunidad, at pamahalaan, mas marami tayong kabataang mailalayo sa ipinagbabawal na droga at masisiguro nating mananatiling ligtas ang kanilang kinabukasan,” he added.

The PNP assured the public that it will continue working closely with the Department of Education and other partner agencies to strengthen preventive measures in schools while upholding the rights and welfare of children.

The police force said the sustained partnership embodies its commitment to delivering responsive public service through prevention, cooperation, and community engagement.