Western Visayas Police Apprehend 250 Wanted Persons in Major Crackdown
In a significant law enforcement achievement, the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6) has successfully arrested 250 wanted persons during a comprehensive, monthlong regionwide manhunt. This intensive operation, which spanned from January 1 to 31, 2026, resulted in the apprehension of all individuals listed on the region's Top 10 Most Wanted Persons roster.
Strategic Operations and Leadership
Under the strategic direction of Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, the regional director of PRO 6, police units executed 247 simultaneous law enforcement operations across Western Visayas. These coordinated efforts were a core component of PRO 6's intensified anti-criminality campaign, designed to enhance public safety and security throughout the region.
Of the total arrests, 81 individuals were classified as Most Wanted Persons (MWP), while 169 were categorized as Other Wanted Persons (OWP). General Ligan attributed this remarkable success to the sustained dedication of police personnel and the vital cooperation from local communities, which provided crucial information leading to the capture of fugitives.
Breakdown of Arrests by Province
The Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) emerged as the top-performing unit, recording 128 arrests across various municipalities in Iloilo province. This figure underscores the aggressive and persistent efforts of provincial police in tracking down individuals with standing warrants.
Following IPPO, the Capiz Police Provincial Office (CPPO) and the Antique Police Provincial Office (ANTPPO) each accounted for 30 arrests. The Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) secured 25 apprehensions within Iloilo City. Other provincial and city police units across Western Visayas also made substantial contributions, collectively ensuring the neutralization of all top 10 MWP within the reporting period.
Community Involvement and Legal Procedures
General Ligan emphasized that community cooperation played a pivotal role in the operation's success. Timely tips from residents enabled police to locate and arrest suspects who had long evaded authorities. He expressed gratitude for the public's continued support, highlighting that vigilance and collaboration with law enforcement are essential for maintaining peace and order.
All arrested individuals have been properly documented and turned over to the appropriate courts for legal disposition, in strict adherence to existing laws and procedures. Police authorities confirmed that these actions were coordinated with the judiciary, ensuring compliance with the rule of law.
Future Commitments and Regional Impact
The successful conclusion of the January operations reinforces PRO 6's commitment to sustained law enforcement actions aimed at reducing criminality. The police leadership has announced that similar operations will continue in the coming months, as part of a directive to intensify the implementation of warrants and deny fugitives safe haven in Western Visayas.
This monthlong campaign is integral to PRO 6's broader operational strategy, which focuses on:
- Strengthening law enforcement visibility
- Enhancing police-community relations
- Ensuring the prompt arrest of individuals facing criminal charges
The apprehension of these wanted persons sends a clear and powerful message that law enforcement agencies in Western Visayas remain relentless in their pursuit of justice and their dedication to upholding public safety. All arrested suspects remain under court custody as legal proceedings advance.
