Major Drug Bust in Iloilo City Nets P2.24 Million Worth of Shabu and Firearm
In a significant blow to illegal drug operations in Western Visayas, police operatives have successfully arrested two suspects, including a high-value individual (HVI), and confiscated approximately 330 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of P2,244,000. The operation, which took place on February 10, 2026, in Barangay Tabuc Suba, Jaro District, Iloilo City, also led to the recovery of an unlicensed Taurus pistol and various drug paraphernalia.
Details of the Arrest and Seizure
The buy-bust operation, conducted at 6:35 p.m., resulted in the apprehension of two individuals identified only by their aliases. Alias "Boss," a 33-year-old single resident of District 3, Sibalom, Antique, was listed as an HVI and is allegedly involved in procuring illegal drugs from Iloilo City for distribution in the First District of Iloilo and Antique Province. Alias "Marian," a 25-year-old single resident of Barangay Tabuc Suba, was classified as a street-value individual (SVI).
During the operation, law enforcement officers seized 15 heat-sealed plastic sachets and four knot-tied plastic bags containing the suspected shabu. Additionally, they recovered marked buy-bust money, a Taurus pistol with a loaded chamber and inserted magazine, and several items of drug and non-drug paraphernalia. The suspects are currently in police custody and will face serious charges under Philippine law.
Legal Charges and Police Statement
Alias Boss is set to be charged with violations of Sections 5 and 11 of Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, for the sale and possession of illegal drugs. He will also face charges under Republic Act 10591, the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, for possession of an unlicensed firearm, which carries a penalty of up to 12 years in prison. Alias Marian will be charged with violation of Section 11 of RA 9165 for possession of illegal drugs, with penalties ranging from life imprisonment to death and fines between P500,000 and P10,000,000.
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, regional director of the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6), attributed the success of the operation to intensive intelligence monitoring, case buildup, and a tip from the community. "This successful operation underscores the effectiveness of intelligence-driven policing and strong inter-unit cooperation," Ligan stated. "PRO 6 remains relentless in its campaign against illegal drugs to protect our communities and ensure the safety and security of the people of Western Visayas."
Collaborative Efforts and Future Commitments
The operation was a joint effort involving multiple police units, including:
- The Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit in Western Visayas
- The Police Drug Enforcement Group – Special Operations Unit in Western Visayas
- The Regional Intelligence Division in Western Visayas
- The Antique Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit
- Iloilo City Police Station 9 under the Iloilo City Police Office
PRO 6 has reiterated its commitment to sustaining intensified anti-illegal drug operations in support of the Philippine National Police's broader campaign for safer and drug-free communities across the region. This bust highlights the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking through coordinated law enforcement actions and community engagement.
