Western Visayas Police Net P20M in Shabu, Arrest 36 Suspects in Week-Long Crackdown
The Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6) has reported a significant breakthrough in its campaign against illegal drugs, with operatives seizing nearly P20 million worth of shabu and apprehending 36 individuals during a series of intensified operations conducted across the region from February 2 to 8, 2026.
Massive Drug Haul and Arrests in Coordinated Efforts
According to Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, director of PRO 6, the seven-day anti-drug drive resulted in 27 separate operations that led to the confiscation of approximately 2,925.30 grams of shabu, with an estimated street value of P19,892,040. The operations were intelligence-driven, involving drug busts and the service of search warrants, and were supported by partner agencies and community informants.
General Ligan emphasized that this achievement underscores PRO 6's steadfast commitment to safeguarding communities from the perils of illegal substances. He urged local government units, barangay officials, and residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly, aiming for a safer and drug-free Western Visayas.
Breakdown of Arrests and Seizures by Police Units
Police data revealed that among the 36 arrested suspects, 13 were classified as high-value individuals (HVI), while 23 were identified as street-value individuals (SVI). All suspects are facing charges under Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Based on a consolidated report from PRO 6, the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) recorded the highest volume of seized illegal drugs during the period. IPPO operatives confiscated a total of 2,049.30 grams of shabu valued at P13,935,240, accounting for the majority of the week's anti-drug accomplishments.
The Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit (RPDEU) in Western Visayas ranked second, seizing 355 grams of shabu with an estimated value of P2,414,000 during separate operations conducted in coordination with local police units.
Meanwhile, the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), under the supervision of Police Colonel Wilbert Parilla, officer-in-charge, placed third with the confiscation of 278 grams of shabu valued at P1,890,400.
Sustained Efforts and Community Involvement
PRO 6 stated that these sustained anti-illegal drug operations are part of its ongoing efforts to dismantle drug networks and curb the proliferation of illegal drugs in Western Visayas through coordinated law enforcement action and active community participation.
Police authorities have reiterated their call for the public, including barangay officials and local government units, to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by reporting illegal drug activities to help maintain peace and order in their respective communities.
All seized illegal drugs have been turned over for proper documentation and laboratory examination, while the arrested suspects remain in police custody as cases are being prepared for filing in court.
PRO 6 has affirmed its commitment to continue intensifying intelligence-driven operations to ensure the safety and security of communities and to sustain gains in the fight against illegal drugs across the region.
