A high-value drug personality was arrested, and a clandestine drug laboratory was dismantled during a coordinated anti-illegal drug operation in Barangay Viente Reales, Valenzuela City, on February 22, 2026.

Joint operatives from the PDEA Cavite Provincial Office, PDEA Regional Office-NCR-Northern District, and Valenzuela City Police Station conducted a buy-bust operation at approximately 4:15 a.m., resulting in the arrest of John, 30, single, and a resident of Cubao, Quezon City, who is listed as a high-value target in the national drug watchlist.

Authorities recovered around 500 grams of suspected shabu, valued at approximately Php1.5 million, along with buy-bust money. During the operation, a clandestine laboratory used for manufacturing illegal drugs was also uncovered and dismantled.

Further investigations are ongoing to determine the full scope of the illegal drug network and identify additional individuals involved.

The suspect is now in custody and will face charges for violations under Section 5 (Sale), Section 8 (Manufacture), and Section 11 (Possession) of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (Republic Act No. 9165).