Major Drug Bust in Western Visayas: 187 Suspects Arrested, P75 Million in Narcotics Seized
In a sweeping crackdown on illegal narcotics, operatives from the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6) have executed a series of successful anti-drug operations throughout the region. Over the course of February 2026, law enforcement authorities apprehended a total of 187 individuals and confiscated approximately 11 kilograms of shabu, valued at an estimated P74,868,884, alongside 66.8 grams of marijuana.
Intensive Month-Long Campaign Yields Significant Results
From February 1 to February 28, 2026, PRO 6 personnel, under the leadership of Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, conducted 144 intelligence-driven operations targeting illicit drug activities. These efforts were coordinated with various law enforcement agencies and supported by community informants, resulting in the dismantling of multiple drug networks across Western Visayas.
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, the director of PRO 6, emphasized the commitment of his team to eradicating the drug trade and ensuring public safety. "This accomplishment demonstrates the steadfast commitment of PRO 6 personnel in safeguarding our communities from illegal drugs. We remain resolute in our mission to protect the safety and welfare of the people in Western Visayas," Ligan stated.
Breakdown of Arrests and Seizures
According to police records, among the 187 individuals arrested, 70 were classified as high-value individuals (HVIs), indicating their significant roles in drug trafficking operations. The remaining 114 suspects were identified as street-value individuals (SVIs), involved in lower-level distribution activities.
The operations led to substantial drug seizures, with the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) reporting the largest volume of confiscated narcotics. Under the command of Police Colonel Bayani Razalan, IPPO operatives seized 6,789.58 grams of shabu and 12 grams of marijuana, arresting 62 suspects in various towns across Iloilo Province.
Meanwhile, the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), headed by Police Colonel Wilbert Parilla as officer-in-charge, recorded the second-highest achievement. ICPO personnel confiscated 1,957 grams of shabu and 15 grams of marijuana, apprehending 74 suspects in separate anti-drug operations within Iloilo City.
Regional Efforts and Collaborative Strategies
Additional contributions came from the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit (RPDEU) in Western Visayas, which arrested 18 suspects and seized about 1,420 grams of illegal drugs through targeted buy-busts and enforcement activities. Other police units across the region also played crucial roles in supporting the intensified campaign against drug trafficking.
Ligan highlighted that the success of these operations was largely due to coordinated intelligence gathering, surveillance activities, and cooperation with partner law enforcement agencies, local government units, barangay officials, and concerned citizens. He urged continued vigilance and active support from community members in reporting suspicious activities to authorities.
Legal Consequences for Suspects
All individuals arrested during the month-long crackdown are now facing charges under Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. This legislation imposes severe penalties for drug-related offenses, underscoring the government's stringent stance against narcotics proliferation.
The comprehensive efforts by PRO 6 reflect a robust regional strategy to combat illegal drugs, aiming to disrupt supply chains and hold perpetrators accountable. As the campaign continues, authorities remain focused on sustaining momentum and fostering safer communities throughout Western Visayas.
