LUCENA CITY, Philippines — Authorities arrested a 21-year-old suspected drug trafficker on Thursday, March 5, 2026, during a buy-bust operation in Calamba City, Laguna. The operation resulted in the seizure of approximately 50 grams of suspected crystal meth (shabu).
- Time and Location: The arrest took place at around 11:32 a.m. in Barangay Real, Calamba City.
- The Suspect: Identified only by the alias “Jalal,” a local resident.
- The Sting: Jalal was apprehended after allegedly selling ₱500 worth of meth to an undercover police officer.
- Evidence Seized: Upon his arrest, police found eight heat-sealed sachets containing a total of 50 grams of suspected meth.
According to Laguna police director Col. Jonar Yupio, the confiscated drugs have an estimated street value of ₱340,000, based on the Dangerous Drugs Board’s standard valuation of ₱6,800 per gram.
The suspect is currently in police custody and will be charged with violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (Republic Act 9165). Local authorities are conducting follow-up investigations to trace the source of the illegal drugs.