IN one of Quezon City’s most persistent drug hotspots, law enforcement scored a major breakthrough.
A well-coordinated buy-bust operation in Barangay Batasan Hills, led by PLtCol. Romil Avenido of Quezon City Police District Batasan Station, resulted in the arrest of a high-value target and the confiscation of ₱13.6 million worth of suspected shabu.
The operation took place along San Mateo Road — a stretch long known for illegal drug activity and considered one of the most challenging areas in the city for police work.
Executed with precision and backed by solid intelligence, the raid earned commendations from QCPD Director PCol. Randy Glenn Silvio and National Capital Region Police Office director PMGen. Anthony Aberin.
Both credited the success to Aberin’s “Triple A” anti-crime doctrine: Able Force, Active Operations, and Allied Partnership.
This strategy underscores proactive policing, strong coordination across agencies and swift tactical response — all of which were clearly demonstrated during the high-impact operation.
Having covered the QCPD beat since the 1980s, I’ve seen firsthand the long-standing challenges faced by officers in areas like Batasan, Payatas and Commonwealth — communities shaped by poverty, dense populations and entrenched criminal elements.
Back then, Station 6 often made headlines for major crimes. Today, under Avenido’s leadership and with strategic support from the top brass, we’re starting to see a shift.
Drug arrests are one of the two primary performance metrics identified by newly appointed Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III in evaluating police effectiveness.
By that standard, the success of this operation reflects the kind of law enforcement leadership Torre seeks to instill – disciplined, results-oriented and committed to genuine public safety.
More than just a tactical win, this operation sends a broader message — even the most hardened territories are not beyond the reach of law and justice.
With sustained leadership, a clear operational framework, and active community engagement, it is possible to reclaim and transform the city’s most difficult areas — one decisive move at a time.
