A construction worker classified as a high-value individual was arrested in a buy-bust operation conducted by the City Drug Enforcement Unit of the Talisay City Police Station at around 3:30 a.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026, in Sitio Sambag, Barangay Lagtang, Talisay City.
The suspect was identified as Manuel Gabito Cabuenas, alias Awing, 59, a resident of Sitio Fatima, Barangay Lagtang. Seized from him were ten large packets of suspected shabu weighing 365 grams, with a standard drug price of P2,482,000. Also recovered were P12,000 in buy-bust money, proceeds from illegal drugs, and a caliber 45 firearm with four bullets.
The confiscated evidence has been submitted to the PNP Forensic Unit 7 for chemical analysis, while the firearm is scheduled for ballistic examination. Charges for violation of Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) are being prepared against the suspect.
Police Brigadier General Arnold Abad, chief of the Police Regional Office 7, commended the Talisay police for the successful anti-illegal drug operation. He stated that the police would not stop their campaign against illegal drugs throughout Central Visayas. “This accomplishment reflects the dedication and determination of our police personnel in combating illegal drugs and criminality. PRO 7 will continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations and strengthen partnerships with the community to ensure safer and more secure neighborhoods,” Abad said.
Police Colonel Abubakar Mangelen Jr., chief of the Cebu Provincial Police Office, emphasized the significance of the seizure, noting that many lives would have been ruined by the drugs. “This successful operation sends a strong message that Cebu PPO remains aggressive and uncompromising in the fight against illegal drugs and loose firearms. The confiscation of this large volume of shabu is a major blow against illegal drug syndicates operating in Cebu. We will sustain our intensified operations to protect our communities and ensure that those involved in criminal activities are held accountable before the law,” Mangelen stated.
