Antique Police Net P1.36 Million in Shabu, Apprehend High-Value Target and Accomplice
In a significant blow to the illicit drug trade in Western Visayas, operatives from the Antique Police Provincial Office (Antppo) successfully conducted a buy-bust operation in the early hours of Tuesday, February 3, 2026. The operation, which took place at 1:02 a.m. in Barangay Funda-Dalipe, San Jose, Antique, resulted in the arrest of two suspects and the seizure of approximately 200 grams of shabu with an estimated street value of P1.36 million.
Suspects Identified as High-Value Individual and Live-In Partner
Police authorities have identified the apprehended individuals as a high-value target known by the alias Christian, aged 41 and residing in San Remigio, Antique, and his live-in partner, alias Ella, 22, from Patnongon, Antique. The arrest marks a critical development in the ongoing campaign to dismantle drug networks operating within the province.
Evidence Seized and Operational Details
During the meticulously planned operation, law enforcement officers confiscated 10 heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing the prohibited substance, along with buy-bust money and other non-drug evidence. The coordinated effort involved the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit of Antppo, working in tandem with the San Jose Municipal Police Station-Station Drug Enforcement Team and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Antique Police Office.
Regional Police Leadership Commends Operatives
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, the regional director of the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6), lauded the operating units for their successful execution of the mission. In a statement, Ligan emphasized that "this successful seizure of illegal drugs is a clear manifestation of our unwavering commitment to protect our communities from the dangers of illegal drugs." He further praised the dedication and vigilance of the personnel involved, noting that their relentless efforts continue to weaken the drug infrastructure in the region.
Strong Warning to Drug Traffickers
Ligan issued a stern caution to individuals engaged in the illegal drug trade, asserting that Western Visayas is not a safe haven for such activities. He reaffirmed the police force's commitment to upholding the law and safeguarding the safety and well-being of the community, underscoring the zero-tolerance policy against narcotics.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Campaign
The suspects are currently under police custody for case disposition and will face charges for violating Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. This operation is part of the intensified anti-illegal drugs campaign in Antique province, which aims to systematically dismantle drug networks and apprehend high-value targets. The seized shabu will be submitted for laboratory examination to verify its composition, while the suspects will undergo inquest proceedings to formalize the charges against them.
Call for Public Cooperation
Authorities have reiterated their appeal for public cooperation in reporting illegal drug activities. Community involvement is seen as crucial to sustaining the momentum of the campaign against illegal drugs in Western Visayas, helping law enforcement agencies to identify and neutralize threats more effectively.
