In a concerted effort to combat drug proliferation, the Bohol police have conducted multiple operations, leading to drug seizures and arrests over the past week. 

From January 13 to 19, the police executed 12 operations, seizing drugs with an estimated street value of P1.9 million and arresting at least 12 suspects. 

One notable operation in Tagbilaran City on January 20 resulted in the seizure of over one million pesos worth of suspected shabu. 

Joebel Tajos, 23, from barangay dela Paz, Cortes, was apprehended after selling drugs to an undercover officer. 

Approximately 155 grams of shabu were confiscated, and Tajos now faces charges for violating the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Another sting operation in Sikatuna on January 21 led to the arrest of Alan Gutang Jr., 35, from barangay Libjo, with drugs worth P6,800 seized. 

Gutang, too, is expected to face charges under the same drug law.

In addition to drug enforcement, the Bohol police also cracked down on illegal gambling, conducting 21 operations between January 13 and 19, which led to the arrest of 55 individuals and the confiscation of over P4,000 in betting money. 

Moreover, four suspects were apprehended in connection with 12 loose firearms seized during this period.

To further strengthen security measures against drug trafficking, Governor Aris Aumentado issued an executive order on January 20 for the deployment of at least nine K-9 dogs at ports across Bohol, including Loon, Tubigon, Talibon, Ubay, Jagna, and Tagbilaran City. 

These dogs, trained to detect various contrabands including illegal drugs, are part of an initiative to inspect all vehicles entering the province. 

Random checks at fish ports are also mandated, with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) collaborating on this effort.

PDEA provincial director Ferdinand Kintanar acknowledged the worsening drug situation in Bohol, noting an increase in the supply of drugs detected entering the province, some of which are destined for redistribution elsewhere in the country. 

Despite the challenges, Kintanar reaffirmed PDEA’s commitment to continuous and intensified efforts against drug trafficking.