Major Drug Bust in Iloilo City: High-Value Suspect Arrested with P1.02 Million Worth of Shabu
In a significant anti-drug operation, police operatives in Western Visayas successfully apprehended a high-value drug suspect and seized a substantial quantity of shabu valued at P1.02 million. The operation took place in Barangay San Juan, Molo District, Iloilo City, early on the morning of February 28, 2026.
Details of the Operation and Arrest
The Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit (RPDEU) in Western Visayas executed a search warrant issued by Branch 39 of the Regional Trial Court in Iloilo City on February 27, 2026. The warrant targeted violations of Republic Act (RA) 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
At approximately 6:55 a.m. on February 28, 2026, the operation was carried out in Zone 2 of Barangay San Juan. Police identified the suspect as alias Jordan, a 53-year-old unemployed resident of the barangay. Notably, Jordan was listed as a high-value individual on the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Council watchlist, underscoring his significance in local drug networks.
Seized Evidence and Police Commendation
During the search, operatives confiscated 30 heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing suspected shabu, with a total weight of approximately 150 grams. Additionally, a digital weighing scale and various drug paraphernalia were seized as evidence.
Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, director of the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6), praised the operating units for their successful mission. In a statement, Ligan emphasized that this arrest highlights the National Government's intensified anti-drug efforts in the region.
"This accomplishment highlights our intensified campaign against illegal drugs in Western Visayas. We remain relentless in going after high-value individuals who continue to endanger our communities," Ligan said. He added, "Let this serve as a stern warning that the PRO 6 will persist in its aggressive and intelligence-driven operations to ensure safer and drug-free communities."
Collaborative Efforts and Legal Proceedings
The RPDEU led the operation with crucial support from multiple units, including the Regional Intelligence Unit (RIU), Iloilo City Police Station 4, the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), and the Iloilo City Intelligence Unit (CIU). This collaborative approach demonstrates the coordinated strategy employed by law enforcement agencies to combat drug-related activities effectively.
Following the arrest, the suspect remains under police custody as authorities prepare to file charges for violation of RA 9165. The operation underscores the ongoing commitment of Philippine law enforcement to disrupt drug trafficking operations and hold perpetrators accountable under the law.
