Major Drug Bust in Lambunao Nets P1.36 Million in Suspected Shabu
In a significant blow to illegal drug activities in Western Visayas, police operatives have arrested a newly identified high-value individual and seized approximately 200 grams of substance believed to be shabu, with an estimated street value of P1.36 million. The successful anti-illegal drug operation was conducted in Barangay Marong, Lambunao, Iloilo, on the afternoon of February 3, 2026.
Coordinated Police Effort Leads to Arrest
The operation was executed through a coordinated effort involving multiple police units. The Tracker Team and Station Drug Enforcement Team of the Lambunao Municipal Police Station worked alongside the Provincial Drug Enforcement Team–Team 2 of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office. This joint action followed credible information from concerned residents regarding the suspect's alleged involvement in drug distribution activities.
Authorities identified the suspect as alias Jean, a 53-year-old unemployed female resident of Barangay Marong, Lambunao, who lives with a partner. She has been classified as a newly identified high-value individual in the region's drug trade.
Police Leadership Commends Operation
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, regional director of the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas, emphasized that this arrest highlights the ongoing commitment of police units in the fight against illegal substances. He stated, "This accomplishment speaks volumes about the dedication of our personnel in eliminating the dangers of illegal drugs in the community. Rest assured that the Police Regional Office 6 will not rest on its laurels in making Western Visayas drug-free and secure."
Similarly, Police Colonel Bayani Razalan, provincial director of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office, praised the Lambunao MPS for their effective work. He noted, "We congratulate the Lambunao MPS, under the leadership of its new chief, for the successful arrest. We also thank the strong support and trust of our residents. This gives additional inspiration to our Ilonggo cops to continue our strong campaign against illegal drugs to protect our province."
Details of the Seizure and Investigation
During the operation, police recovered several items from the suspect:
- Two small heat-sealed plastic sachets containing suspected shabu
- Two large knot-tied plastic sachets containing suspected shabu
- The buy-bust money used in the operation
- Various non-drug related items
The confiscated drugs had an estimated weight of about 200 grams, with a standard drug price valuation of P1,360,000. The buy-bust operation culminated nearly three weeks of surveillance by police operatives, who received reports indicating the suspect was sourcing illegal drugs from Iloilo City and distributing them within Lambunao.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Efforts
The operation was led by the Station Drug Enforcement Team of the Lambunao MPS under Police Lieutenant Gabriel Gilmer Manguera, who serves as the officer in charge of the station. Following her apprehension, the suspect was transported to the Lambunao Municipal Police Station, where she remains in custody awaiting proper legal disposition.
Authorities are currently preparing to file criminal charges against her for violations of Sections 5 and 11 of Republic Act 9165, commonly known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. The Iloilo Police Provincial Office has reiterated its dedication to sustained anti-illegal drug operations throughout the province, emphasizing that coordinated efforts between police units and community members remain essential in addressing the drug problem effectively.
