Major Drug Bust in Iloilo City: Police Arrest Senior High-Value Individual, Confiscate P1.088 Million Worth of Shabu
In a significant blow to illegal drug operations in Western Visayas, operatives from Iloilo City Police Station 2 successfully apprehended a 61-year-old high-value individual during a meticulously planned buy-bust operation in Barangay MacArthur, La Paz District, Iloilo City. The arrest, which occurred around 11:05 p.m. on February 10, 2026, resulted in the seizure of approximately 160 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of P1,088,000, along with other critical evidence.
Coordinated Operation Yields Substantial Contraband
The suspect, identified only by the alias Norman, a widower and resident of the same barangay, was taken into custody after allegedly selling one sachet of suspected shabu to an undercover police officer posing as a buyer. The operation was conducted by the Iloilo City Police Office, specifically ICPS 2 under the leadership of Police Captain Gimel Acuesta, who served as officer in charge. Authorities coordinated closely with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in Western Visayas to ensure the operation's success and compliance with legal protocols.
During the raid, police confiscated a total of 11 heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing the suspected illegal substance, including the item used in the buy-bust transaction. The combined weight of the seized drugs was approximately 160 grams, representing a substantial quantity with significant street value. In addition to the narcotics, officers recovered the marked buy-bust money used in the operation and one homemade 12-gauge pistol-type shotgun loaded with a single live round from the suspect's possession.
Legal Charges and Police Response
Following the arrest, the suspect was classified as a high-value individual based on existing police records and intelligence. He is currently detained at ICPS 2 for proper processing and will face serious legal consequences. Charges are being prepared for violations of Sections 5 and 11 of Republic Act 9165, commonly known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as well as RA 10591, the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, the regional director of the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas, publicly commended the operating units for their successful execution of the mission. He emphasized that the arrest of this high-value individual and the recovery of such a significant quantity of illegal drugs and a firearm demonstrate the unwavering commitment of law enforcement to dismantle drug networks that threaten community safety. General Ligan reaffirmed the police's dedication to intensifying intelligence-driven operations across the region.
Continued Anti-Drug Campaign in Iloilo
Police Colonel Wilbert Parilla, the officer in charge of the Iloilo City Police Office, highlighted the ongoing and relentless nature of the city's anti-drug campaign. He stated that the police will not waver in their intensified efforts against illegal drugs, regardless of the age or social status of those involved. Colonel Parilla pointed out that illegal drugs continue to devastate families and communities, and this operation serves as a stern warning that the ICPO will persistently pursue drug personalities to ensure they face the full force of the law.
The Iloilo City Police Office has announced plans to strengthen coordination with other law enforcement agencies in Western Visayas. This collaborative approach aims to sustain intelligence-driven operations targeting not only illegal drugs but also other criminal activities within Iloilo City, ensuring a comprehensive strategy for public safety and order.
