The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Davao (PDEA-11) has destroyed around P4 million worth of illegal drugs seized in various operations in the region.

PDEA-11 said the illegal drugs destroyed on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, included more than 498 grams of shabu; 5,303 grams of marijuana; and several expired medicines.

These items served as evidence in drug cases in courts and ordered to be disposed of.

The illegal drugs were incinerated inside the thermal facility of a funeral home in Davao City.

“Isa ito sa paraan na ipaalam sa public na there’s no such thing as recycling ng illegal drugs pagdating sa custody ng PDEA,” PDEA-11 Director, Edgar Jubay, said.

PDEA-11 said the volume of illegal drugs seized in the region has increased.

“Medyo tumaas kasi last year meron tayong, kung hindi ako nagkakamali, 16 kilos eh… ngayon, halos domoble, umaabot ng 26 kilos sa October at meron pang November… nagpa-pile up, medyo tataas pa talga. Maraming nahuhuli sa Davao City pero galing sa labas at basically galing sa labas ng Davao region… ‘yun yung nakikita natin sa data natin,” Jubay added.

Jubay attributed the increase in the amounts confiscated to intensified operations and the cooperation of the public, who continue to provide information.

However, PDEA-11 noted that the region’s several entry and exit points pose challenges for law enforcement.

“Sa Davao region kasi, maraming entrance at exit point, eh, although established ating mga checkpoint pero mga durugista di dumadaan sa checkpoint, maghahanap talaga ‘yan ng alternate road para malusot ang contraband,” Jubay said.

Meanwhile, authorities seized suspected shabu worth more than P3.4 million in a buy-bust operation in Zamboanga City.

During the operation, a 32-year-old man tagged as a high value target was arrested.

He is facing charges for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act (RA 9165).

(With reports from Efren Mamac, GMA Regional TV One Mindanao)