
03/07/2025
SUSPECTED ILLEGAL DRUG LABORATORY BUSTED IN CEBU CITY; EXTENSIVE DRUG-MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT AND CHEMICAL COMPONENTS SEIZED
Multiple laboratory apparatus, various chemicals, fi****ms, ammunition, and explosives were confiscated during the implementation of a search warrant at an apartment unit in Brgy. Zapatera, Cebu City, on June 30, 2025, in a joint operation of Police Regional Office 7 led by Regional Director, Police Brigadier General Redrico A. Maranan, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).
The operation stemmed from almost five months of surveillance, complemented by a series of buy-bust operations that ultimately led to the identification of the main source and manufacturer of illegal drugs in the region. The search warrant was applied for following a buy-bust operation on June 27, 2025, which resulted in the arrest of a suspect known as alyas "Tepen" and the confiscation of PHP 2.2 million worth of assorted illegal drugs, including shabu, co***ne, and party drugs.
Intelligence later revealed that "Tepen" is allegedly a chemical engineer, operating the illicit activities from the said apartment, which had been converted into a kitchen-type clandestine drug laboratory.
During the implementation of the search warrant, a 20-year-old female suspect who was inside the premises at the time was also arrested. The search was witnessed by representatives from the Department of Justice (DOJ), Barangay Zapatera, and media, ensuring the legality and transparency of the operation.
All confiscated items have been submitted to the Regional Forensic Unit 7 for examination. Meanwhile, cases for violation of Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) will be filed against the arrested suspects. A comprehensive investigation is also underway to determine additional charges, including possession of regulated chemicals and possible liabilities against the business establishment where the illegal activity was being conducted.
As of July 1, 2025, the initial chemistry report revealed that five (5) out of 143 pieces of evidence submitted tested “Positive” for Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (M**A) and Ketamine, both classified as dangerous drugs. This report has been formally submitted to PDEA for confirmation of the classification of the illegal drugs and for determination of the standard drug valuation.
In an interview, PBGEN Maranan issued a strong warning to landlords, property managers, and business owners, especially those operating condominiums and apartment complexes, to be vigilant and familiar with their tenants or renters. He emphasized that failure to monitor and report suspicious activities could result in legal accountability, especially if their properties are found to be used for criminal activities such as drug manufacturing.
“Mayroon po tayong responsibilidad na alamin ang background ng lahat ng mga pinatitira natin. May responsibilidad tayo na alamin ang mga activities ng ating mga tenants sapagkat kapag napatunayan na ang nagpapa-upa ay may alam sa mga illegal activities na ginagawa ng kanilang mga tenants, ay liable din po sila sa Republic Act 9165,” said PBGEN Maranan.
"Sa Bagong Pilipinas, Abg Gusto ng Pulis, Ligtas Ka! "