Over P74M Worth of Illegal Drugs Seized; 10 Drug Personalities Arrested in PRO CAR’s Weeklong Ops
In its continued efforts to safeguard communities and curb the proliferation of illegal drugs, the Police Regional Office Cordillera Administrative Region (PRO CAR) carried out a weeklong series of anti-illegal drug operations from January 19 to 25, 2026, resulting in the seizure of more than P74M worth of illegal drugs and the arrest of ten drug personalities.
During the week, PRO CAR conducted a total of 41 operations, comprising nine buy-bust operations, 30 marijuana eradication operations, one search warrant implementation, and one police response.
These operations led to the confiscation of 178,235 fully grown marijuana plants, 29,000 marijuana seedlings, 306,150 grams of dried marijuana leaves with fruiting tops, and 91.90 grams of shabu, with a total Standard Drug Price of PhP74,169,920.00. Additionally, ten drug personalities were arrested, including one listed as a High Value Individual (HVI) and nine listed as Street Level Individuals (SLIs).
The most significant operations were recorded in Benguet, where the Benguet Police Provincial Office (PPO) confiscated PhP46,344,168.00 worth of illegal drugs and arrested three SLIs, and in Kalinga, where the Kalinga PPO seized PhP27,260,740.00 worth of illegal drugs and apprehended two SLIs.
Moreover, in Baguio City, the Baguio City Police Office seized PhP426,428.00 worth of suspected shabu and arrested three SLIs and one HVI, while in Abra, the Abra PPO confiscated PhP138,584.00 worth of suspected shabu and nabbed one SLI.
These accomplishments underscore PRO CAR’s steadfast commitment to combating illegal drugs and safeguarding peace and security across the Cordillera region. Beyond enforcement, these efforts reflect a proactive approach to protecting communities, preserving public order, and fostering a safer environment where citizens can live and thrive free from the threats posed by illegal drugs.
PRO CAR Honors Gallantry of SAF 44 on 11th National Day of Remembrance
In a dignified and heartfelt commemoration, the Police Regional Office Cordillera Administrative Region (PRO CAR) joined the nation in honoring the heroic sacrifice of the 44 courageous Philippine National Police–Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) members, whose lives were given in the line of duty, as it marked the 11th anniversary of their ultimate act of heroism on January 25, 2026.
The ceremonial tribute was held at John Hay Hotels, Camp John Hay, Baguio City, and was led by PBGEN ERICSON D DILAG, Regional Director of PRO CAR. The ceremony was attended by members of the PRO CAR Command Group; PCOL RUEL D TAGEL, City Director of the Baguio City Police Office; PLTCOL LORENZO SOLANG DALANG III, Commander of the 11th Special Action Battalion; Mr. Roberto A. Garcia, General Manager of John Hay Hotels; families and relatives of the SAF 44; personnel from PRO CAR and the PNP-SAF; visitors, and other invited guests.
The program paid honor to the fallen heroes through a series of solemn ceremonial activities, highlighted by a wreath-laying ceremony, volley firing, and the sounding of taps, capped by a 21-gun salute rendered by the PNP-SAF. This was followed by the blessing of the SAF Memorial, honoring the courage and selflessness of the “SAF 44” who laid down their lives during a police operation against a wanted international terrorist in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on January 25, 2015.
For the people of the Cordilleras, the commemoration carries a profound weight: 14 of the 44 troopers were proud sons of this region. Their sacrifice remains a cornerstone of the Cordillera’s identity as a cradle of elite warriors and dedicated public servants.
In the message of the Acting Chief, PNP, PLTGEN JOSE MELENCIO C NARTATEZ, JR, read by PBGEN DILAG, the Chief PNP commemorated the heroism and selfless sacrifice of the SAF 44, describing their bravery as a powerful reminder of the noble duty of every police officer, while also underscoring the enduring value of unity, close coordination, and effective communication in protecting lives and upholding national security.
“The SAF 44 remind us why this profession must never be taken lightly, their sacrifice calls on us to serve with discipline, unity, and deep respect for human life, to think before we act. To lead responsibly and to protect the people entrusted to us,” he added.
The observance was also anchored on Proclamation No. 164, which declares January 25 of every year as the National Day of Remembrance for the SAF 44, serving as a lasting reminder of the dedication and continuing sacrifices of uniformed men and women who put their lives on the line in the service of peace, security, and the Filipino people.
Through the solem program , PRO CAR reaffirmed its commitment to honor the legacy of the SAF 44 by upholding the highest standards of professionalism, unity, and service—ensuring that their valor continues to inspire present and future generations of police officers.**
