BUTUAN CITY (June 27) – In line with the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADAIT), the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Office 13 (PDEA RO-13), led by Regional Director Levi S. Ortiz, spearheaded the destruction of more than ₱15 million worth of dangerous drugs and drug paraphernalia in Butuan City.
The incineration took place today (June 27) at Orgon Wood Industries Inc., Bingkilan, Barangay San Vicente. This year’s IDADAIT theme, “The evidence is clear: Invest in prevention. Break the cycle,” highlights the need for proactive measures to address the root causes of drug abuse, especially among the youth.
The activity began with a program where Atty. Randy Agustin, Chief of the Legal and Prosecution Unit, welcomed guests. RD Ortiz emphasized PDEA’s holistic approach and the importance of community partnerships, while IA V Jade P. Langam explained the significance of the destruction as part of national and international anti-drug efforts.
PDEA chemists, led by CMT III Mark Roy T. Paguyod, conducted random inspections of the seized drugs before the items were incinerated. Guests and official witnesses personally disposed of the contraband to ensure transparency.
Among the drugs destroyed were:
- Methamphetamine Hydrochloride (Shabu): 2,238 grams valued at ₱15.22 million
- Marijuana: 1,369 grams valued at ₱164,000
The total street value reached ₱15.38 million. The items came from resolved court cases and anti-drug operations without identified suspects.
Official witnesses included representatives from the barangay, judiciary, Public Attorney’s Office, the Rotary Club, and the media. Special guests from PNP PRO-13, RTC Butuan, and Orgon Wood Industries also attended.
RD Ortiz thanked all partners for their support and underscored the importance of collective action in breaking the cycle of addiction. As a gesture of gratitude, he awarded a plaque to Engr. Rene G. Oafallas of Orgon Wood Industries for providing the facility’s incinerator.
PDEA reminds the public that drug prevention begins in every community and calls on everyone to be part of the solution.
