Authorities in Iloilo City and province arrested four high-value individuals and confiscated more than PHP3.6 million worth of suspected illegal drugs during intensified anti-narcotics operations conducted on May 11 and 12, 2026.
The operations, spearheaded by the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6), led to the recovery of approximately 529 grams of shabu and a small quantity of marijuana.
Major Seizure in Estancia
The largest single haul occurred in Estancia at 11:45 p.m. on May 11. Officers from the Estancia Municipal Police Station and the 2nd Iloilo Provincial Mobile Force Company arrested a 37-year-old suspect identified only as alias Ed. Police seized 254 grams of shabu valued at PHP1,727,200 and PHP2,400 worth of marijuana leaves in Barangay Cano-an. Ed, a resident of Balasan, was reportedly out on bail for previous drug charges at the time of his arrest.
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, regional director of PRO 6, commended the operation. "PRO 6 remains relentless in its fight against illegal drugs," Ligan said. "This successful operation reflects the dedication and strong coordination of our operating units."
Back-to-Back Stings in Iloilo City
In Iloilo City, joint units from the city’s Drug Enforcement Unit, Maritime Police, and Station 2 conducted consecutive sting operations in La Paz District:
- Barangay Nabitasan: At 9:20 p.m. on May 11, police arrested alias Jolan, 30. They recovered 140 grams of suspected shabu worth PHP952,000.
- Barangay Baldoza: At 1:15 a.m. on May 12, authorities arrested alias Charlie, 38, a tricycle driver. Officers seized 55 grams of suspected shabu valued at PHP374,000.
Both suspects are residents of Barangay Sinikway, Lapuz District.
Fourth Arrest in Lemery
A fourth operation took place in Lemery at 3:30 p.m. on May 12. Following three weeks of surveillance, the Lemery Municipal Police arrested alias Nik, 26, in Barangay Almeñana. Police confiscated 80 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated value of PHP544,000.
Iloilo Provincial Director Colonel Bayani Razalan credited the arrest to community tips. "Congratulations to Lemery MPS for the successful arrest," Razalan said in a translated statement. "Our strong campaign against illegal drugs continues throughout the province."
All four suspects remain in police custody and face charges for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. If convicted, they could face life imprisonment and fines of up to PHP10 million.
