PDEA Agent Killed in Calamba Drug Sting; Massive Manhunt Underway

**** by: Edjun Mariposque

****

July 24, 2025

3–5 minutes

Calamba City, Laguna — The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) is mourning the loss of one of its brave operatives, Intelligence Officer I Raffy Escobido, who died in the line of duty following a shootout during a buy-bust operation on July 20, 2025.

Escobido, 31, was a member of the Regional Special Enforcement Team 2 under PDEA Regional Office IV-A. He joined the agency as part of the Drug Enforcement Officers’ Basic Course (DEOBC) Class 2017-11 “Gandilan” of the PDEA Academy.

The fatal operation took place at around 9:15 PM in an open parking lot of a mall in Barangay Real, Calamba City. According to reports, PDEA operatives from Regional Office 4A and the Laguna Provincial Office conducted a buy-bust operation against a suspect known only by the alias “Mark” and his cohorts.

PDEA agents posing as buyers confirmed the transaction and signaled for the arresting team to move in. However, the suspects, realizing the presence of authorities, opened fire on the agents. A gun battle ensued, during which Escobido sustained a critical gunshot wound to the head. The suspects escaped aboard their vehicle, prompting a full-scale manhunt.

Escobido was rushed to the nearest hospital and placed under intensive care but succumbed to his injuries on July 23, 2025, at 11:07 PM.

PDEA Director General Undersecretary Isagani R. Nerez expressed deep sorrow over the agent’s passing. “We are deeply saddened by the untimely loss of one of our own. We extend our sincerest condolences to the bereaved family. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Nerez said.

He added that all national and regional PDEA offices will fly their flags at half-mast as a sign of mourning and respect.

“PDEA will make sure that Escobido’s death will not be in vain. We will remain unfaltering on the ideals he died for. This will only heighten our resolve to pursue every member of the illegal drug industry. For those behind this dastardly act, we will not rest until you face the full force of the law,” Nerez warned.

The suspects remain at large as authorities continue their hot pursuit operations.

#EdjunMariposque

#CalambaCityUpdates

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