Joint AFP-PNP operation nets wanted drug suspect in Tacloban City

By SAMAR NEWS.COM
June 15, 2026

CATBALOGAN CITY – A joint law enforcement operation involving police and military personnel led to the arrest of a wanted drug suspect in Tacloban City on June 10, according to the 8th Infantry Division (8ID) of the Philippine Army.

In a statement, the 8ID said joint elements of the Tacloban City Mobile Force Company and Task Group Tacloban served a warrant of arrest against Achilles Ubas y Perpenial, also known as “Aki,” in Barangay 25, Paterno Extension.

Authorities said Ubas was arrested on the strength of a warrant issued by Regional Trial Court Branch 46 in Tacloban City on April 26, 2026, for alleged violation of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. The case involves the alleged sale, trading, administration, dispensation, delivery, distribution, and transportation of dangerous drugs. The court recommended no bail.

Following the arrest, the suspect was turned over to the proper authorities for documentation and further judicial proceedings.

The 8ID said the operation underscored the continuing partnership between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police in maintaining law and order, particularly in urban communities considered free from Communist Terrorist Group influence.

While military operations in Eastern Visayas remain focused on addressing residual insurgency threats in affected areas, the division said sustaining peace also requires support for law enforcement efforts against criminality and illegal drugs in stable communities.

“Peace and security are not measured solely by the absence of armed conflict,” the division said. “They are sustained through the rule of law, strong institutions, and the collective efforts of security forces in protecting communities from all forms of threats, including criminality and illegal drugs.”