BACOLOD City — A minor was arrested and about five grams of suspected shabu worth an estimated P34,000 were seized during a drug operation in Barangay Vista Alegre here on August 16, 2026.
The operation was conducted at around 6:20 p.m. at Progresso Village 1 by the Station Drug Enforcement Team of Police Station 7 of the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO), with support from the City Drug Enforcement Unit.
Police said the operation targeted a street-level individual allegedly involved in the illegal drug trade.
However, authorities later determined that the person apprehended was a minor.
Instead of publicly identifying the child, police immediately placed the minor under protective procedures in accordance with laws governing children in conflict with the law (CICL).
The BCPO Women and Children Protection Desk facilitated the minor’s turnover to the Social Development Center, where the child will undergo appropriate assessment, intervention and disposition by the city’s Department of Social Services and Development.
Police said the seized substance was secured for proper documentation and examination as part of the ongoing investigation.
The BCPO emphasized that its anti-drug campaign also takes into account the protection of children who become involved in or are exposed to illegal drug activities.
The identity of the minor is being withheld to protect the child’s rights and welfare, consistent with applicable child-protection laws and procedures.
Under the leadership of City Director Col. Eugene N. Rebadomia, the BCPO said it will continue to conduct focused and intelligence-driven operations against illegal drugs while ensuring that law enforcement actions involving minors are carried out with appropriate safeguards.
The police office also called on parents, guardians, educators, community leaders and other stakeholders to remain vigilant and work together to prevent children from becoming involved in illegal drugs and other criminal activities./PN
