CIDG Regional Field Unit 7

30/08/2026

HIDDEN ARSENAL UNEARTHED IN BAGGAO

The Philippine National Police (PNP), under the leadership of PNP Chief PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., has scored a significant operational gain with the recovery of an arms cache believed to be associated with the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Brgy. Agaman Proper, Baggao, Cagayan on August 26, 2026.

The recovery stemmed from information provided by a former rebel identified by the alias “Romy,” which led operating units to a concealed cache along a CTG mobility corridor. The operation was carried out jointly by the 204th Maneuver Company, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 2 (204th MC, RMFB2); 2nd Mobile Force Platoon of the 1st Cagayan Provincial Mobile Force Company; Police Intelligence Team Cagayan South; Regional Intelligence Unit 2; Baggao Police Station; and the 17th Infantry Battalion, 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army.

Upon locating the cache, the operating units secured the area and requested assistance from the Provincial Explosive and Canine Unit (PECU) Cagayan to ensure the safe recovery and proper handling of the explosive ordnance. The operation resulted in the recovery of two improvised anti-personnel mines measuring approximately 10 x 10 inches, one 12-volt battery, 10 pieces of linked 7.62mm ammunition, one corroded caliber .45 pistol, one corroded caliber .38 revolver, one corroded caliber 9mm pistol, and one 12-gauge shotgun.

The recovered explosive ordnance was turned over to PECU Cagayan for proper disposal, while the fi****ms and ammunition were placed under the temporary custody of the 204th MC, RMFB2 for documentation and appropriate disposition.

“Every successful recovery is an opportunity to prevent these weapons from reaching the battlefield or being used against civilians. This accomplishment demonstrates the value of timely information and the readiness of our forces to act on threats before they escalate,” PGEN Nartatez said.

“Sa bawat impormasyong ating natatanggap, may pagkakataong mapigilan ang mas malaking panganib. Kaya mahalaga ang pakikipagtulungan ng ating mga kababayan upang maagapan ang anumang banta sa kanilang seguridad,” he added.

The operation likewise reflects the PNP Focused Agenda, a strategic framework for transforming police service, particularly through Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which reinforces decisive action and sound operational responses to emerging security threats.

The recovery of the hidden arsenal underscores the PNP’s resolve to prevent armed groups from replenishing their weapons and explosives and to protect communities from potential violence.

Under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the PNP remains steadfast in safeguarding the Filipino people and delivering “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman.”

(PNP-PIO)

30/08/2026

AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL BUSTED FOR ILLEGAL BATTERY TRADE IN CDO; ₱1.58-M STOCK SEIZED

The Philippine National Police, under the leadership of PNP Chief PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., arrested an Australian national in Cagayan de Oro City over the alleged illegal sale and distribution of imported automotive batteries.

The 59-year-old suspect, identified only as alias “Frank,” was apprehended on August 25, 2026, in Barangay Iponan during an Oplan Megashopper operation against economic sabotage, smuggling, and the illegal manufacture, distribution, or trading of counterfeit products.

The operation was spearheaded by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Cagayan de Oro City Field Unit (CFU), with the RFU 10 RSOT, in coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 10 and Police Station 7 of the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO).

DTI verification found that the suspect had no authority to sell the automotive batteries, which were allegedly sourced from China and lacked the required Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) stickers. Authorities also determined that he had no established physical store and was allegedly using a rented house near Barangay Iponan as a storage and distribution point.

Recovered from the operation were five EFB-R NS60LMF 9 Plates and five EFB-R N66LMF 11 Plates Lead-Acid Batteries used as buy-bust items, one genuine ₱1,000.00 bill, 27 pieces of ₱1,000.00 boodle money, and one receipt. The inventory further included 25 EFB-R N100MF 16 Plates, 40 EFB-R DIWSOMF 13 Plates, 195 EFB-R N66LMF 11 Plates, 24 EFB-R DIWSOMF 10 Plates, 55 EFB-R NS60LMF 9 Plates, and 148 EFB-R NS40LMF 7 Plates Lead-Acid Batteries, with an estimated total market value of ₱1,582,400.00.

PNP Chief PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. emphasized the importance of sustained police action against unlawful commercial activities that compromise consumer protection and legitimate businesses.

“Effective law enforcement begins with knowing where unlawful activity is taking place and acting decisively once the facts are established. We will keep strengthening our operations against violations that affect the public and legitimate commerce,” the PNP Chief said.

He likewise stressed the need for strict compliance with regulations governing the sale of imported products.

“Dito sa Pilipinas, pantay-pantay ang lahat sa ilalim ng batas. Anuman ang iyong nationality, kailangan mong sumunod sa ating mga batas at harapin ang kaukulang proseso kapag may paglabag,” he added.

The operation reflects the PNP Focused Agenda, a framework for police transformation designed to strengthen police service, particularly through Enhanced Managing Police Operations, by translating information and validation into timely and lawful enforcement action.

The arrested individual and confiscated evidence were brought to the CIDG Cagayan de Oro CFU Office for documentation and proper disposition. Appropriate cases for violations of Republic Act No. 7394, or the Consumer Act of the Philippines, and Republic Act No. 4109 are being prepared for inquest proceedings before the City Prosecutor’s Office.

As the PNP strengthens its enforcement against unlawful trade under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., it assures the public of “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman.”

(PNP-PIO)

30/08/2026

PSR-LISTED CTG MEMBER’S TIP LEADS TO HIDDEN ARMS CACHE IN SURIGAO DEL SUR

The Philippine National Police, under the leadership of PNP Chief PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., recovered a concealed Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) arms cache in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, after information from a previously arrested PSR-listed CTG member led police to the hidden location.

On August 21, 2026, personnel of the 1st Special Action Battalion (1SAB), Special Action Force (SAF), together with other PNP and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) units, conducted a SAF-initiated counterinsurgency combat operation in Barangay Tagbobonga, Hinatuan, resulting in the recovery of the concealed cache.

The information was provided by a former rebel, alias “Jennibita” or “Lg/Shana,” a PSR-listed CTG member who was arrested on June 15, 2026, by virtue of a warrant of arrest during a SAF-initiated counterinsurgency operation.

Recovered from the arms cache were one AK-47 7.62mm rifle, three magazines, and 102 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, as well as four Clamor-type anti-personnel improvised explosive devices (APERS IEDs), medical supplies, and surgical equipment.

The recovered fi****ms, ammunition, medical supplies, and surgical equipment were placed under the temporary custody of the 14th Special Action Company (14SAC), 1SAB, SAF, for documentation. The IEDs will be turned over to the Provincial Explosive Ordnance and Canine Unit (PECU), Surigao del Sur, EOD/K9 Group, for examination and proper disposition.

The operation highlights how actionable information can lead to the discovery of concealed resources used by armed groups. This supports the PNP Focused Agenda, particularly Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which strengthens the police response against security threats through sustained operational action.

PNP Chief PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. stressed that the recovery prevents dangerous weapons and explosive devices from being used against communities.

“Recovering these weapons is a concrete step toward denying armed groups the means to threaten our communities. We will pursue every legitimate lead that can help prevent violence and protect lives,” PGEN Nartatez said.

He likewise underscored the importance of information in locating hidden weapons and disrupting hostile activities.

“Ang pagkakarekober sa mga kagamitang ito ay patunay na may resulta ang ating pagtutulungan sa ground. Hindi natin hahayaang manatiling banta sa mga komunidad ang mga armas at pampasabog na itinatago ng mga armadong grupo,” he added.

As the PNP strengthens efforts to prevent armed groups from rebuilding their capabilities under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., it assures the public of “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman.”

(PNP-PIO)

30/08/2026

BARMM POLLS: 9,435 PNP DEPLOYED, SECURITY PREPARATIONS AT 98%

With only 18 days to go before the September 14, 2026 BARMM Parliamentary Elections, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has deployed a total of 9,435 personnel as security preparations move into the final stretch.

The deployment covers election-related security duties across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), including the protection of voting centers, Commission on Elections (COMELEC) offices, treasurers’ offices, checkpoints, quick reaction forces, civil disturbance management units, and Special Electoral Boards.

Of the total deployment, 4,361 personnel are from Police Regional Office BARMM, while 5,074 augmentation personnel come from other PNP regional offices and units, including the Highway Patrol Group, Explosive Ordnance Disposal units, and PNP Special Action Force.

On August 26, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla and Chief PNP Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. personally attended the Final Command Conference and Stakeholders’ Meeting for the BARMM Parliamentary Elections at Camp Brigadier General Salipada K. Pendatun in Parang, Maguindanao del Norte, where they checked the final preparations, deployment, and coordination among the agencies involved in securing the elections.

The PNP said preparations are now 98 percent complete, with remaining activities focused on final coordination and adjustments based on the specific security requirements of each area.

“Nandiyan na ang ating mga tao at nakaayos na ang mga plano. Pero hindi ibig sabihin na tapos na ang trabaho. Sa natitirang 18 araw, pagtitibayin pa natin ang coordination at titiyakin na handa ang bawat unit sa anumang sitwasyon,” PGen Nartatez said.

He reminded police personnel assigned to election duties to remain impartial, professional, and respectful of the electoral process, while taking appropriate action on violations such as vote-buying and other election-related offenses.

All 1,368 Special Electoral Boards are under the control and supervision of the COMELEC, consistent with the constitutional mandate governing the conduct of elections.

The PNP continues to coordinate closely with the COMELEC and other government agencies, particularly in areas requiring heightened security attention. Police units have also been placed on heightened alert, with quick reaction and other support forces ready to respond to any eventuality.

These preparations form part of the PNP Focused Agenda, particularly Enhanced Managing Police Operations, ensuring that police resources are properly positioned, coordinated, and responsive to the security needs of each area.

As the Bangsamoro prepares for this important electoral exercise under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the PNP remains committed to protecting the people’s right to vote and helping ensure a peaceful and orderly election, in keeping with the “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.”

(PNP-PIO)

30/08/2026

PNP ARRESTS 5 IN CAMARINES SUR FOR ALLEGED FDA LAW VIOLATION, SEIZES P2.47M COOKING OIL

The Philippine National Police (PNP), through the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and other operating units in Camarines Sur, seized more than ₱2.4 million worth of cooking palm oil during a law enforcement operation in Nabua, Camarines Sur on August 26, 2026.

The operation stemmed from the implementation of a search warrant for an alleged violation of Republic Act No. 9711, or the Food and Drugs Administration Act of 2009. Authorities recovered various containers holding a total of about 76 kilograms of cooking palm oil and 56.4 liters of the same product, along with three digital weighing scales, a closed van, and relevant documents.

Five individuals, all of legal age and Filipino nationals, were apprehended in connection with the operation. One other individual identified in the report remains at large. The arrested individuals and recovered items were brought to the CIDG Camarines Sur Provincial Field Unit for documentation and proper disposition, while appropriate charges are being pursued.

Chief PNP Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said the operation reflects the PNP’s continuing effort to address activities that may compromise the safety and welfare of the public.

“We will continue to do our job, especially when there are concerns involving products that reach our communities. Ang mahalaga, napoprotektahan natin ang publiko at nasisiguro na nasusunod ang batas,” PGen Nartatez said.

The operation is part of the PNP’s continuing implementation of its Focused Agenda, particularly Enhanced Managing Police Operations, through coordinated law enforcement efforts with concerned government agencies and units on the ground. It likewise supports the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in strengthening enforcement against unlawful activities that affect communities and legitimate businesses.

The PNP will continue to pursue cases within the bounds of law and due process, while ensuring that its operations remain focused, coordinated, and responsive to the needs of the public. These efforts form part of the PNP’s commitment to “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman,” delivering police service that protects communities and upholds the law.

(PNP-PIO)

30/08/2026

PNP SUSTAINS DRIVE VS MOST WANTED PERSONS, ARRESTS 4 IN ONE DAY

The Philippine National Police (PNP) arrested four regional most wanted persons in separate operations in La Union, Cebu, and General Santos City on August 26, including three individuals listed among the Top 10 Most Wanted Persons in their respective areas.

In General Santos City, personnel of Police Station 6 of the General Santos City Police Office, together with the General Santos City MARPSTA, arrested a No. 10 Most Wanted Person in Barangay Apopong. The suspect was arrested by virtue of a court-issued warrant for Robbery with Homicide, with no bail recommended. The suspect remains under the custody of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology for proper disposition.

Police in General Santos City also served a warrant against another wanted person for Robbery with Homicide. The suspect remains in the custody of the BJMP while awaiting further proceedings.

In Aringay, La Union, personnel of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 1, together with the Aringay Municipal Police Station and supporting intelligence and police units, arrested the No. 2 Most Wanted Person in Barangay San Juan West. The suspect was arrested by virtue of a warrant for Qualified R**e, as well as two counts of Acts of Lasciviousness in relation to Republic Act No. 7610. Bail was recommended for the two Acts of Lasciviousness cases, while no bail was recommended for the Qualified R**e case. The suspect is now under police custody.

Meanwhile, in Dumanjug, Cebu, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Lapu-Lapu City Field Unit, Regional Intelligence Unit 7, and Dumanjug Municipal Police Station arrested the No. 10 Most Wanted Person of Police Regional Office 7 in Barangay Bitoon. The suspect was arrested by virtue of a warrant for violation of Republic Act No. 10883, or the New Anti-Carnapping Act of 2016. The court recommended bail of ₱300,000.00, and the suspect remains under police custody for proper disposition.

Chief PNP Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said the arrests demonstrate the importance of sustained coordination and reliable information in locating wanted persons while ensuring that every operation remains within the bounds of the law.

“These arrests are the result of police units doing their part and working together. May mga warrant na kailangang ipatupad, at responsibilidad natin na hanapin ang mga taong sakop nito while respecting due process. Tuloy lang ang trabaho, maayos at naaayon sa batas,” PGen Nartatez said.

The operations are part of the PNP’s continuing drive against wanted persons under its Enhanced Managing Police Operations, one of the key components of the PNP Focused Agenda. The approach strengthens coordination and the use of timely information to support lawful police operations while respecting the rights of persons under the law.

The PNP’s efforts support the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen peace and order and ensure that government services remain responsive to the Filipino people. These continuing operations form part of the PNP’s commitment to the “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.”

(PNP-PIO)

30/08/2026

30/08/2026

30/08/2026

PNP ANTI-SMUGGLING OPS YIELD ₱6.5-M SUSPECTED SMUGGLED CI******ES, 4 ARRESTS

The Philippine National Police (PNP) arrested four individuals and confiscated more than ₱6.5 million worth of suspected smuggled ci******es in separate operations in Sultan Kudarat and Davao del Norte on August 27, 2026.

In Columbio, Sultan Kudarat, personnel of the Columbio Municipal Police Station, Sultan Kudarat Provincial Police Office, intercepted a vehicle at a checkpoint in Sitio Malingen, Barangay Poblacion, resulting in the arrest of two suspects, both Filipinos and of legal age. Authorities recovered 33 boxes of suspected smuggled ci******es valued at approximately ₱1.41 million, along with an Isuzu Elf van.

In a separate operation in Asuncion, Davao del Norte, personnel of the Asuncion Municipal Police Station and 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company of the Davao del Norte Provincial Police Office arrested two other Filipino suspects, both of legal age. The operation led to the seizure of 90 master cases and 1,500 reams of suspected smuggled ci******es with an estimated value of ₱5.1 million.

The suspects and confiscated items are under police custody for appropriate legal proceedings.

Chief PNP Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said the PNP will continue strengthening field operations against activities that undermine legitimate commerce and public revenue.

“We will keep our eyes on the ground and act when there is enough basis to do so. Hindi lang ito tungkol sa mga nakumpiskang produkto; it is also about protecting legitimate businesses and making sure that our laws are respected. We want our operations to be firm, but always fair and accountable.”

The operations form part of the PNP’s Focused Agenda, particularly Enhanced Managing Police Operations (EMPO), which promotes coordinated, intelligence-informed, and responsive police action. These efforts support the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in strengthening law enforcement and protecting legitimate economic activity.

As the PNP advances the administration’s peace and security priorities, it remains committed to delivering “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman” through professional, lawful, and responsive police service.

(PNP-PIO)