Western Visayas Police Seize P39.4 Million in Drugs, Arrest 86 Suspects in Intensive Operations
The Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6) has announced a significant breakthrough in its ongoing fight against illegal drugs, with authorities confiscating approximately 5,796.30 grams of shabu valued at P39,414,840 and 4.8 grams of kush marijuana worth P7,200 during a series of coordinated operations across the region. These anti-drug missions, conducted from February 1 to February 15, 2026, resulted in the arrest of 86 individuals involved in illicit drug activities.
Intelligence-Driven Campaign Yields Major Results
Under the leadership of Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, PRO 6 executed 65 targeted operations that leveraged intelligence gathering and community cooperation. Ligan emphasized that this achievement underscores the relentless dedication of law enforcement personnel and the crucial partnership with local agencies and residents. "This accomplishment reflects not only the relentless efforts of our police officers but also the strong partnership between law enforcement and the community," Ligan stated. "With the public's support, we are better equipped to safeguard our communities from the harmful effects of illegal drugs."
Breakdown of Arrests and Seizures Across Key Units
Of the 86 suspects apprehended, 34 were classified as high-value individuals (HVI), indicating their significant roles in drug networks, while 52 were identified as street-value individuals (SVI). The operations saw varied contributions from different police units:
- Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO): Led by Police Colonel Bayani Razalan, this unit recorded the highest volume of seizures, confiscating 3,415.30 grams of shabu and arresting 30 suspects.
- Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO): Under Police Colonel Wilbert Parilla, it followed with 974 grams of shabu seized and 35 individuals arrested.
- Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit (RPDEU): Accounted for 805 grams of illegal drugs seized and 10 arrests.
Other police units throughout Western Visayas also played vital roles, culminating in the total drug haul. PRO 6 attributed these successes to focused, intelligence-driven, and well-coordinated efforts among law enforcement teams.
Community Involvement and Legal Proceedings
Authorities highlighted the indispensable support from local government units, barangay officials, and concerned citizens, whose timely tips enabled precise anti-drug actions. Ligan urged continued vigilance, stressing that community involvement remains vital to sustaining the region's anti-drug campaign. All arrested individuals are now facing charges under Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as the legal process moves forward to ensure accountability.
