PDEA gives P7.4M reward to 31 tipsters who helped anti-drug ops

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) on Monday gave P7.46 million in rewards to 31 civilian informants who helped advance the government’s anti-narcotics campaign.

Six of the tipsters, their faces fully covered, received their reward during a simple ceremony at the PDEA national office in Quezon City.

The other informants were recognized and awarded at PDEA regional offices across the country.

The reward money – amounting to P7.466,707.69 – is under Operation: Private Eye (OPE), an intelligence-driven initiative.

PDEA Director General and Undersecretary Isagani Nerez said the tipsters are individuals who “exemplify the power of citizen action.”

“Their information led to 33 high-impact anti-drug operations that dismantled criminal networks, resulted in the seizure of significant quantities of illegal drugs, and apprehension of high-value drug personalities,” Nerez said in a statement.

The top informant received P1.834 million for giving intelligence that led to the seizure of 24.983 kilos of methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu and the arrest of three suspects in a buy-bust operation in Candelaria, Quezon on October 10, 2025.

All reward releases were rigorously evaluated by the OPE Reward Committee, composed of PDEA key officials and representatives from the business, academic, and religious sectors.

Nerez noted that behind every successful anti-drug operation is a citizen who chose to act.

“Their vigilance and willingness to come out in the open and speak up despite the risks involved, have disrupted illegal drug activities and helped protect countless lives,” he said.

“We call on every Filipino to be part of the solution. Do not underestimate the power of your voice. A single piece of information can save lives, dismantle illegal drug networks, and restore peace in your community,” he added.

Concerned citizens may report illegal drug activities through the secure Operation: Private Eye hotline at 09178677332. — JMA, GMA Integrated News