Over 1,100 arrested in renewed anti-illegal drugs campaign in Metro Manila in January 2026
A total of 1,167 illegal drugs personalities were arrested in the monthlong anti-illegal drugs operations in January this year, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) said.
NCRPO director Maj. Gen. Anthony A. Aberin said the same operations also resulted in the confiscation of around ₱113 million worth of illegal drugs, including shabu, marijuana, cocaine and Ecstasy.
“These successful operations reflect sustained pressure against illegal drug distribution networks operating within the region,” said Aberin.
Aberin said a total of 206 people were also collared while 209 firearms were confiscated in January this year as part of the campaign to account for loose firearms.
Earlier, national police chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. ordered all police commanders to intensify the campaign against loose firearms, saying they are main instruments in the commission of crimes.
He also ordered an intensified campaign against wanted persons and in the NCRPO, Aberin said a total of 1,334 wanted persons were collared last month.
Among them were 489 Most Wanted Persons (MWP) and 845 Other Wanted Persons (OWP).
For illegal gambling, he said a total of 1,793 individuals were arrested.
“Every operation reflects how discipline, coordination, and accountability are applied on the ground. Our focus remains on maintaining order, addressing public safety concerns at their source, and ensuring that police actions translate into visible, measurable outcomes for the communities we serve,” said Aberin.